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We're not obsessed by anything, you see," insisted Ford…

“We're not obsessed by anything, you see," insisted Ford. "..." "And that's the deciding factor. We can't win against obsession. They care, we don't. They win." "I care about lots of things," said Slartibartfast, his voice trembling partly with annoyance, but partly also with uncertainty. "Such…” quote by Douglas Adams
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“We're not obsessed by anything, you see," insisted Ford. "..." "And that's the deciding factor. We can't win against obsession. They care, we don't. They win." "I care about lots of things," said Slartibartfast, his voice trembling partly with annoyance, but partly also with uncertainty. "Such as?" "Well," said the old man, "life, the Universe. Everything, really. Fjords." "Would you die for them?" "Fjords?" blinked Slartibartfast in surprise. "No." "Well then." "Wouldn't see the point, to be honest.”

Douglas Adams

About This Quote

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

Obsession blinds competition; caring about many things keeps perspective and prevents losing focus to single‑minded drive.

In simple terms: Caring broadly protects against obsession.

Key Takeaway

Balance interests to stay resilient.

Themes

balance perspective competition obsession resilience

Mood

reflective thoughtful

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • team dynamics
  • personal growth
  • decision making
  • conflict resolution

Key Concepts

philosophy psychology literature

Questions to Reflect On

  • Do you prioritize breadth over depth?
  • How does caring about many things affect your goals?
A Different Perspective

Obsession can also fuel deep expertise and breakthrough innovation.

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