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What I possess I would gladly retain. Change amuses the…

“What I possess I would gladly retain. Change amuses the mind, yet scarcely profits.” quote by Johann Wolfgang von Goethe
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“What I possess I would gladly retain. Change amuses the mind, yet scarcely profits.”

Johann Wolfgang von Goethe

About This Quote

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

He acknowledges that while curiosity drives change, it often yields little practical benefit.

In simple terms: Change is exciting but not always useful.

Key Takeaway

Balance curiosity with practicality.

Themes

curiosity change mind value profit

Mood

thoughtful philosophical

Type

reflective analytical

When to use this quote

  • personal growth
  • creative pursuits
  • risk assessment
  • learning new skills

Key Concepts

philosophy human nature motivation

Questions to Reflect On

  • When is change worth it?
  • How do you measure profit of curiosity?
A Different Perspective

May lead to wasted effort.

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