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The desire for sudden change and the thought of their…

“The desire for sudden change and the thought of their realization by force often appears among men like a disease and gains ground mainly in young brains; only these brains do not think as they should, do not amount to anything in the end and the heads that think thus do not remain long on their…” quote by Ivo Andrić
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““The desire for sudden change and the thought of their realization by force often appears among men like a disease and gains ground mainly in young brains; only these brains do not think as they should, do not amount to anything in the end and the heads that think thus do not remain long on their shoulders. For it is not human desires that dispose and administer the things of this world. Desire is like a wind, it sifts the dust from one place to another, sometimes darkens the whole horizon, but in the end calms down and leaves the old and eternal picture of the world. Lasting deeds are realized on this earth only by God’s will, and man is only His humble and blind tool.””

Ivo Andrić

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 warns that impulsive, forceful attempts at change are immature and fleeting, while true lasting outcomes arise from patience, humility, and alignment with a higher purpose.

In simple terms: Quick fixes are immature; lasting work needs humility and patience.

Key Takeaway

Seek steady purpose over rash ambition.

Themes

patience humility purpose spirituality maturity

Mood

reflective serious thoughtful

Type

philosophical spiritual advice

When to use this quote

  • personal growth
  • political reform
  • social movements
  • spiritual practice
  • leadership

Key Concepts

impermanence human desire divine will self‑control

Questions to Reflect On

  • What deeper purpose guides your actions?
  • How can humility shape lasting impact?
A Different Perspective

Rash actions can still cause harm before being corrected.

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