Hope is itself a species of happiness, and, perhaps, the…
“Hope is itself a species of happiness, and, perhaps, the chief happiness which this world affords: but, like all other pleasures immoderately enjoyed, the excesses of hope must be expiated by pain; and expectations improperly indulged must end in disappointment”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Hope is a joy that, when excessive, leads to pain and disappointment.
In simple terms: Hope brings joy but can cause pain.
Moderate hope, avoid over‑indulgence.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- goal setting
- financial planning
- relationships
- creative projects
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- What expectations are you inflating?
- How can you temper hope with realism?
Unrealistic hope breeds disillusion.