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The laborious process of causation which sooner or later…

“The laborious process of causation which sooner or later will bring about every possible effect, including, consequently, those which one believed to be least possible, naturally slow at times, is rendered slower still by our desire (which in seeking to accelerate only obstructs it), by our very…” quote by Marcel Proust
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““The laborious process of causation which sooner or later will bring about every possible effect, including, consequently, those which one believed to be least possible, naturally slow at times, is rendered slower still by our desire (which in seeking to accelerate only obstructs it), by our very existence, and comes to fruition only when we have ceased to desire, and sometimes ceased to live.””

Marcel Proust

About This Quote

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

Desire and existence hinder the natural, slow unfolding of cause and effect, which only resolves when desire ceases.

In simple terms: Wanting speeds up nothing; letting go lets things happen.

Key Takeaway

Release desire to allow natural outcomes.

Themes

philosophy psychology patience

Mood

reflective contemplative

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • creative work
  • scientific research
  • personal growth
  • decision making

Key Concepts

determinism free will existentialism

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does letting go change your approach to goals?
  • When is desire beneficial?
A Different Perspective

Desire can also motivate progress; balance is needed.

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