For the secret of man's being is not only to live but to…
“For the secret of man's being is not only to live but to have something to live for. Without a stable conception of the object of life, man would not consent to go on living, and would rather destroy himself than remain on earth, though he had bread in abundance.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Life’s purpose is to have a meaningful aim; without it, existence feels empty despite material abundance.
In simple terms: Purpose gives meaning beyond material wealth.
Seek a purpose to sustain life.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- career planning
- creative projects
- spiritual practice
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- What gives your life meaning?
- How can you discover a purpose?
Purpose can be elusive and change over time.