Skip to content

Well,' said Hodgkins, 'perhaps he really is interested in…

“Well,' said Hodgkins, 'perhaps he really is interested in everything, only he doesn't overdo it. For ourselves there is always one single interest. You want to become. I want to do. My nephew wants to have. But the Joxter just lives.' 'Simply lives,' I said. 'Anybody can do that.' 'Mphm,' Hodgkins…” quote by Tove Jansson
Download Open image
““Well,' said Hodgkins, 'perhaps he really is interested in everything, only he doesn't overdo it. For ourselves there is always one single interest. You want to become. I want to do. My nephew wants to have. But the Joxter just lives.' 'Simply lives,' I said. 'Anybody can do that.' 'Mphm,' Hodgkins said.””

Tove Jansson

About This Quote

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

A character reflects on the balance between broad curiosity and focused passion, suggesting that some people simply exist without striving for specific goals.

In simple terms: Some people are naturally curious about everything, while others have a single purpose.

Key Takeaway

Recognize and respect different life approaches.

Themes

curiosity purpose existence

Mood

contemplative neutral

Type

observational philosophical

When to use this quote

  • personal growth
  • career planning
  • creative pursuits
  • relationship dynamics

Key Concepts

human nature philosophy

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you balance wide interests with focused goals?
  • What does “simply lives” mean to you?
A Different Perspective

Broad curiosity can hinder deep mastery in a chosen field.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Tove Jansson

Explore all 159 Tove Jansson quotes

More Life quotes

Browse all 265,290 Life quotes