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If I shall sell both my forenoons and afternoons to…

“If I shall sell both my forenoons and afternoons to society, as most appear to do, I'm sure that, for me, there would be nothing left worth living for.” quote by Henry David Thoreau
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“If I shall sell both my forenoons and afternoons to society, as most appear to do, I'm sure that, for me, there would be nothing left worth living for.”

Henry David Thoreau

About This Quote

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

He feels that selling his time and personal pursuits to society would leave his life empty of meaning.

In simple terms: Selling oneself empties life.

Key Takeaway

Protect personal time and passions.

Themes

individualism materialism meaning life purpose

Mood

reflective melancholic

Type

philosophical literary

When to use this quote

  • career
  • personal hobbies
  • volunteering
  • family time

Key Concepts

existentialism consumerism time management

Questions to Reflect On

  • What personal activities give you purpose?
  • How can you balance societal duties with personal fulfillment?
A Different Perspective

Societal expectations often demand sacrifice of personal joy.

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