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For the moment they wanted to live with the least…

“For the moment they wanted to live with the least expenditure, economize words, gestures, thoughts, float: they had only one day in which to smooth out their wrinkles, their crow’s feet, the bitter lines made by a hard week’s work. One day only.” quote by Jean-Paul Sartre
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““For the moment they wanted to live with the least expenditure, economize words, gestures, thoughts, float: they had only one day in which to smooth out their wrinkles, their crow’s feet, the bitter lines made by a hard week’s work. One day only.””

Jean-Paul Sartre

About This Quote

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

People try to minimize effort in a fleeting life, but even a single day holds deep emotional weight.

In simple terms: People try to save energy, yet each day is precious.

Key Takeaway

Value each day despite its brevity.

Themes

existentialism time effort

Mood

reflective somber

Type

philosophical literary

When to use this quote

  • personal reflection
  • creative work
  • stressful periods

Key Concepts

meaning mortality daily routine

Questions to Reflect On

  • What does “smooth out wrinkles” symbolize for you?
  • How can we balance economy with emotional honesty?
A Different Perspective

The quote may overgeneralize human coping strategies.

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