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There is no such thing as real happiness in life. The…

“There is no such thing as real happiness in life. The justest definition that was ever given of it was "a tranquil acquiescence under an agreeable delusion"--I forget where.” quote by Laurence Sterne
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“There is no such thing as real happiness in life. The justest definition that was ever given of it was "a tranquil acquiescence under an agreeable delusion"--I forget where.”

Laurence Sterne

About This Quote

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

He argues that true happiness is elusive, often a comforting illusion rather than a concrete state.

In simple terms: Happiness is an illusion.

Key Takeaway

Seek meaning, not fleeting contentment.

Themes

philosophy happiness illusion existentialism

Mood

melancholic thoughtful

Type

literary philosophical

When to use this quote

  • daily life
  • mental health
  • spiritual practice
  • philosophical inquiry

Key Concepts

subjective well‑being psychology

Questions to Reflect On

  • What does "tranquil acquiescence" mean to you?
  • Can happiness be both real and illusory?
A Different Perspective

May discount genuine moments of joy as merely delusional.

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