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About this quote

What does it mean?
A cynical observation that things frequently deteriorate or end poorly despite expectations.
In plain terms
Things usually go wrong in the end.
What can you take from it?
Expect the worst to prepare for inevitable disappointments.

Where it applies

  • bad days
  • failed plans
  • crises

Putting it to work

  • build resilience
  • lower expectations
  • plan contingencies

Questions to consider

  • How often do things actually go wrong?
  • Does expecting the worst help or hurt?

Another view

Not every situation ends badly; optimism is also warranted.

More from Tennessee Williams

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  3. I'll just imagine he had an operation. The horn was removed to make him feel less - freakish! Now he will feel more at home with the other horses, the ones tha…

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