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The select natures who pant after the ideal, and find…

“The select natures who pant after the ideal, and find nothing in pantaloons or petticoats great enough to command their reverence and love, are curiously in unison with the narrowest and pettiest.” quote by George Eliot
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“The select natures who pant after the ideal, and find nothing in pantaloons or petticoats great enough to command their reverence and love, are curiously in unison with the narrowest and pettiest.”

George Eliot

About This Quote

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

Idealists seek lofty goals but often cling to trivialities, limiting their reverence and love.

In simple terms: Idealists get stuck on small things.

Key Takeaway

Focus on true values, not trivialities.

Themes

idealism materialism self‑delusion

Mood

thoughtful critical

Type

literary philosophical

When to use this quote

  • career choices
  • personal values
  • creative projects

Key Concepts

philosophy psychology literature

Questions to Reflect On

  • What truly commands your reverence?
  • How can you avoid petty distractions?
A Different Perspective

Idealism can become escapism.

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