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The Europeans are themselves blind who describe fortune…

“The Europeans are themselves blind who describe fortune without sight. No first-rate beauty ever had finer eyes, or saw more clearly. They who have no other trade but seeking their fortune need never hope to find her; coquette-like, she flies from her close pursuers, and at last fixes on the…” quote by Oliver Goldsmith
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“The Europeans are themselves blind who describe fortune without sight. No first-rate beauty ever had finer eyes, or saw more clearly. They who have no other trade but seeking their fortune need never hope to find her; coquette-like, she flies from her close pursuers, and at last fixes on the plodding mechanic who stays at home and minds his business.”

Oliver Goldsmith

About This Quote

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

People often chase success without true insight, missing deeper value and settling for superficial gains.

In simple terms: Chasing success without insight leads to shallow outcomes.

Key Takeaway

Seek deeper understanding before pursuing fortune.

Themes

insight fortune perception

Mood

reflective thoughtful

Type

philosophical literary

When to use this quote

  • career ambition
  • relationships
  • financial decisions
  • personal growth

Key Concepts

philosophy human nature illusion

Questions to Reflect On

  • What deeper values am I overlooking?
  • How can I balance ambition with insight?
A Different Perspective

Superficial pursuits can blind true appreciation of value.

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