But this is human life: the war, the deeds, The…
““But this is human life: the war, the deeds, The disappointment, the anxiety, Imagination’s struggles, far and nigh, All human; bearing in themselves this good, That they are still the air, the subtle food, To make us feel existence. -Keats, Endymion This is the ‘goal’ of the soul path – to feel existence; not to overcome life’s struggles and anxieties, but to know life first hand, to exist fully in context. (Thomas Moore, Care of the Soul, p.260)””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Human life is a blend of struggle, imagination, and the quest to truly feel existence, not merely to overcome challenges.
In simple terms: Life’s purpose is to experience existence fully despite hardships.
Seek authentic experience over mere survival.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- daily life
- creative work
- personal growth
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- What does “feeling existence” mean to you?
- How can imagination aid in confronting anxiety?
The view may overlook the value of overcoming obstacles for growth.