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A continual feast of commendation is only to be obtained…

“A continual feast of commendation is only to be obtained by merit or by wealth: many are therefore obliged to content themselves with single morsels, and recompense the infrequency of their enjoyment by excess and riot, whenever fortune sets the banquet before them.” quote by Samuel Johnson
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“A continual feast of commendation is only to be obtained by merit or by wealth: many are therefore obliged to content themselves with single morsels, and recompense the infrequency of their enjoyment by excess and riot, whenever fortune sets the banquet before them.”

Samuel Johnson

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 settle for small pleasures, compensating with excess when rare opportunities arise, highlighting human greed.

In simple terms: Small pleasures lead to excess when rare.

Key Takeaway

Beware overindulgence.

Themes

greed economics human nature

Mood

critical reflective

Type

philosophical ethical

When to use this quote

  • budgeting
  • celebrations
  • luxury purchases

Key Concepts

philosophy social critique

Questions to Reflect On

  • Why do we overindulge?
  • How can moderation be cultivated?
A Different Perspective

May ignore structural causes.

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