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I want to be thoroughly used up when I die, for the harder…

“I want to be thoroughly used up when I die, for the harder I work, the more I live. I rejoice in life for its own sake. Life is no ‘brief candle’ to me. It is sort of a splendid torch which I have a hold of for the moment, and I want to make it burn as brightly as possible before handing it over…” quote by George Bernard Shaw
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““I want to be thoroughly used up when I die, for the harder I work, the more I live. I rejoice in life for its own sake. Life is no ‘brief candle’ to me. It is sort of a splendid torch which I have a hold of for the moment, and I want to make it burn as brightly as possible before handing it over to future generations.””

George Bernard Shaw

About This Quote

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

True fulfillment comes from intense effort and living purposefully, treating life as a bright torch to pass on.

In simple terms: Work hard, live fully, leave a legacy.

Key Takeaway

Live passionately and contribute to future generations.

Themes

purpose work legacy

Mood

inspired thoughtful

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • career ambition
  • personal development
  • philanthropy

Key Concepts

existentialism humanism meaningful living

Questions to Reflect On

  • What does “used up” mean for you?
  • How do you balance intensity with wellbeing?
A Different Perspective

It may romanticize overwork and neglect rest.

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