And then there are always clever people about to promise…
““And then there are always clever people about to promise you that everything will be all right if only you put yourself out a bit... And you get carried away, you suffer so much from the things that exist that you ask for what can't ever exist. Now look at me, I was well away dreaming like a fool and seeing visions of a nice friendly life on good terms with everybody, and off I went, up into the clouds. And when you fall back into the mud it hurts a lot. No! None of it was true, none of those things we thought we could see existed at all. All that was really there was still more misery-- oh yes! as much of that as you like-- and bullets into the bargain!””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Idealistic promises often clash with harsh reality, leading to disillusionment and deeper suffering.
In simple terms: Dreams clash with reality, causing pain.
Key Takeaway
Beware false hopes; stay grounded.
Themes
disillusionment
reality
hope
pain
illusion
Mood
melancholic
reflective
Type
cautionary
philosophical
When to use this quote
- personal ambition
- political activism
- mental health
- social movements
Key Concepts
existentialism
human condition
illusion
resilience
Questions to Reflect On
- What truths do you ignore for comfort?
- How can hope be realistic?
A Different Perspective
Idealistic visions can ignore systemic oppression, limiting change.