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It now lately sometimes seemed a black miracle to me that…

“It now lately sometimes seemed a black miracle to me that people could actually care deeply about a subject or pursuit, and could go on caring this way for years on end. Could dedicate their entire lives to it. It seemed admirable and at the same time pathetic. We are all dying to give our lives…” quote by David Foster Wallace
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“It now lately sometimes seemed a black miracle to me that people could actually care deeply about a subject or pursuit, and could go on caring this way for years on end. Could dedicate their entire lives to it. It seemed admirable and at the same time pathetic. We are all dying to give our lives away to something, maybe.”

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.

He observes that deep, lifelong passion can feel both noble and absurd, highlighting human yearning for purpose.

In simple terms: Passion can be admirable yet seem foolish.

Key Takeaway

Embrace meaningful pursuits despite their paradoxes.

Themes

purpose passion humanity paradox dedication

Mood

reflective melancholic inquisitive

Type

philosophical personal

When to use this quote

  • career choice
  • artistic creation
  • activism
  • long‑term projects
  • personal growth

Key Concepts

existentialism psychology motivation

Questions to Reflect On

  • What drives you to commit deeply?
  • How do you balance passion with practicality?
A Different Perspective

Such devotion may lead to burnout or neglect of other life aspects.

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