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But and so things are slow, and like you they have this…

“But and so things are slow, and like you they have this irritating suspicion that any real satisfaction is still way, way off, and it’s frustrating; but like basically decent kids they suck it up, bite the foil, because what’s going on is just plain real; and no matter what we want, the real world…” quote by David Foster Wallace
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““But and so things are slow, and like you they have this irritating suspicion that any real satisfaction is still way, way off, and it’s frustrating; but like basically decent kids they suck it up, bite the foil, because what’s going on is just plain real; and no matter what we want, the real world is pretty slow, at present, for kids our age. It probably gets less slow as you get older and more of the world is behind you, and less ahead, but very few people of our generation are going to find this exchange attractive, I’ll bet.””

David Foster Wallace

About This Quote

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

Patience is required because real fulfillment often feels distant, especially for youth, and the world’s pace can seem frustratingly slow.

In simple terms: Real satisfaction feels far off for young people.

Key Takeaway

Accept slow progress, keep persisting.

Themes

patience disillusionment growth

Mood

thoughtful realistic

Type

philosophical reflective

When to use this quote

  • career advancement
  • education
  • long‑term projects

Key Concepts

sociology existentialism

Questions to Reflect On

  • What small wins can you celebrate now?
  • How do you stay motivated despite slowness?
A Different Perspective

Slow progress can breed discouragement.

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