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He was terribly conscious that he only had one life and it…

“He was terribly conscious that he only had one life and it seemed to sad to think that he had wasted it. He could never surmount his immeasurable regret. And that's why I tell you that Byring is right. Even though it only lasts five years, even though he ruins his career, even though this marriage…” quote by W. Somerset Maugham
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““He was terribly conscious that he only had one life and it seemed to sad to think that he had wasted it. He could never surmount his immeasurable regret. And that's why I tell you that Byring is right. Even though it only lasts five years, even though he ruins his career, even though this marriage ends in disaster, it will have been worth while. He will have been satisfied. He will have fulfilled himself.””

W. Somerset Maugham

About This Quote

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

The quote reflects on the urgency of living fully, acknowledging that a brief, passionate pursuit can bring fulfillment despite societal costs.

In simple terms: Live passionately even if short;

Key Takeaway

Embrace intense, short‑term passions.

Themes

purpose fulfillment regret passion risk

Mood

reflective determined

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • career sacrifice
  • intense relationships
  • artistic pursuits
  • personal crises

Key Concepts

Existentialism self‑actualization

Questions to Reflect On

  • Is a brief, intense life better than a long, safe one?
  • What sacrifices are worth making for personal fulfillment?
A Different Perspective

Short‑term passion may cause long‑term consequences.

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