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Some persons can give themselves away to an ambitious…

“Some persons can give themselves away to an ambitious pursuit and have that be all the giving-themselves-away-to-something they need to do. Though sometimes this changes as the players get older and the pursuit more stress-fraught. American experience seems to suggest that people are virtually…” quote by David Foster Wallace
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“Some persons can give themselves away to an ambitious pursuit and have that be all the giving-themselves-away-to-something they need to do. Though sometimes this changes as the players get older and the pursuit more stress-fraught. American experience seems to suggest that people are virtually unlimited in their need to give themselves away, on various levels. Some just prefer to do it in secret.”

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.

People often sacrifice themselves to ambitious goals, sometimes secretly, reflecting a deep, sometimes hidden, drive to give away oneself.

In simple terms: Ambition can lead to self‑sacrifice, often hidden.

Key Takeaway

Balance ambition with self‑care and authenticity.

Themes

ambition self‑sacrifice psychology identity secret motivations

Mood

introspective concerned motivated

Type

philosophical practical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • career planning
  • creative projects
  • volunteering
  • mental health counseling

Key Concepts

existentialism behavioral economics personal development

Questions to Reflect On

  • What drives you to give yourself away?
  • How can you maintain personal boundaries while pursuing goals?
A Different Perspective

May cause burnout or loss of self.

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