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About this quote

What does it mean?
Desire for what is not creates barrenness even in fertile things.
In plain terms
Wanting what isn't here makes fertile things barren.
What can you take from it?
Desire for the missing kills what is present.

Where it applies

  • relationships
  • personal growth
  • decision making

Putting it to work

  • focus on what you have
  • avoid idealization

Questions to consider

  • Does wanting ruin what you have?
  • What makes things barren?

Another view

Desire drives progress and growth.

More from Wallace Stevens

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