Skip to content

Time was to sin and to enjoy, time was to scoff at God and…

“Time was to sin and to enjoy, time was to scoff at God and at the warnings of His holy church, time was to defy His majesty, to disobey His commands, to hoodwink one's fellow men, to commit sin after sin and to hide one's corruption from the sight of men.” quote by James Joyce
Download Open image
““Time was to sin and to enjoy, time was to scoff at God and at the warnings of His holy church, time was to defy His majesty, to disobey His commands, to hoodwink one's fellow men, to commit sin after sin and to hide one's corruption from the sight of men.””

James Joyce

About This Quote

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

Time is depicted as a period for both sin and pleasure, challenging religious authority and moral warnings.

In simple terms: Time allows sin and pleasure, defying religion.

Key Takeaway

Question societal norms about time and morality.

Themes

morality rebellion time

Mood

philosophical critical

Type

thoughtful provocative

When to use this quote

  • personal reflection
  • literary analysis
  • ethical debate

Key Concepts

existentialism religious critique freedom

Questions to Reflect On

  • What does this say about personal responsibility?
  • How does time influence moral choices?
A Different Perspective

Joyce’s style may exaggerate for effect.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by James Joyce

Explore all 707 James Joyce quotes

More Sinner quotes

Browse all 1,932 Sinner quotes