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Ah, what is then this earthly life, But grief, affliction…

“Ah, what is then this earthly life, But grief, affliction and great strife? E’en when fairest it has seemed, Nought but pain it can be deemed.” quote by August Strindberg
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““Ah, what is then this earthly life, But grief, affliction and great strife? E’en when fairest it has seemed, Nought but pain it can be deemed.””

August Strindberg

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Life is filled with suffering and hardship, even when it seems beautiful.

In simple terms: Life brings pain despite appearances.

Key Takeaway

Accept hardship as part of life.

Themes

suffering illusion existence

Mood

melancholic thoughtful

Type

philosophical poetic

When to use this quote

  • personal loss
  • health crises
  • relationship struggles
  • creative blocks

Key Concepts

existentialism human condition

Questions to Reflect On

  • What suffering lies beneath joy?
  • How do you find meaning in pain?
A Different Perspective

Beauty can mask deeper pain.

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