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Icarus! It’s not as if I have forgotten all names. I…

“Icarus! It’s not as if I have forgotten all names. I remember Icarus. He flew too close to the sun. In the stories, though, it’s worth it. Always worth it to have tried, even if you fail, even if you fall like a meteor forever. Better to have flamed in the darkness, to have inspired others, to…” quote by Neil Gaiman
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““Icarus! It’s not as if I have forgotten all names. I remember Icarus. He flew too close to the sun. In the stories, though, it’s worth it. Always worth it to have tried, even if you fail, even if you fall like a meteor forever. Better to have flamed in the darkness, to have inspired others, to have lived, than to have sat in the darkness, cursing the people who borrowed, but did not return, your candle.””

Neil Gaiman

About This Quote

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

Embracing the risk of failure, valuing the act of daring over the outcome, and finding purpose in inspiring others despite personal loss.

In simple terms: Trying is better than never trying, even if you fail.

Key Takeaway

Take bold risks and inspire others.

Themes

risk failure inspiration legacy

Mood

hopeful melancholic

Type

philosophical motivational

When to use this quote

  • creative pursuits
  • entrepreneurship
  • personal growth
  • artistic expression
  • scientific discovery

Key Concepts

existentialism heroic idealism

Questions to Reflect On

  • What would you attempt if fear of failure vanished?
  • How does your legacy shape your choices?
A Different Perspective

Blind ambition can lead to unnecessary danger or burnout.

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