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Time has its revenges, but revenge seems so often sour…

“Time has its revenges, but revenge seems so often sour. Wouldn’t we all do better not trying to understand, accepting the fact that no human being will ever understand another, not a wife with a husband, nor a parent a child? Perhaps that’s why men have invented God – a being capable of…” quote by Graham Greene
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“Time has its revenges, but revenge seems so often sour. Wouldn’t we all do better not trying to understand, accepting the fact that no human being will ever understand another, not a wife with a husband, nor a parent a child? Perhaps that’s why men have invented God – a being capable of understanding.”

Graham Greene

About This Quote

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

The quote reflects on the futility of seeking revenge and the impossibility of truly understanding another person, suggesting that belief in a higher power may arise from this yearning for comprehension.

In simple terms: Revenge is bitter; true understanding is impossible; faith fills the gap.

Key Takeaway

Accept limits, avoid revenge, seek empathy.

Themes

revenge understanding faith human limits

Mood

reflective melancholic thoughtful

Type

philosophical literary existential

When to use this quote

  • marriage
  • family conflict
  • personal betrayal
  • spiritual searching

Key Concepts

existentialism psychology theology

Questions to Reflect On

  • Can we ever truly know another’s experience?
  • How does faith help cope with incomprehension?
A Different Perspective

Revenge may sometimes be justified when moral boundaries are crossed.

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