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It is an illusion that youth is happy: an illusion of…

“It is an illusion that youth is happy: an illusion of those who have lost it; but the young know they are wretched, for they are full of the truthless ideals which have been instilled into them, and each time they come into contact with the real, they are bruised and wounded... they must discover…” quote by W. Somerset Maugham
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““It is an illusion that youth is happy: an illusion of those who have lost it; but the young know they are wretched, for they are full of the truthless ideals which have been instilled into them, and each time they come into contact with the real, they are bruised and wounded... they must discover for themselves that all they have read and been been told [by their elders] are lies, lies, lies; and each discovery is another nail driven into the body of the cross of life.””

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.

Youth’s happiness is an illusion; truth reveals disillusionment, forcing individuals to confront harsh realities.

In simple terms: Youthful bliss is a false belief; truth brings pain.

Key Takeaway

Seek realistic understanding.

Themes

illusion youth truth

Mood

somber thoughtful

Type

philosophical cautionary

When to use this quote

  • education
  • career choices
  • personal relationships

Key Concepts

philosophy psychology

Questions to Reflect On

  • What truths have shattered your expectations?
  • How do you cope with disillusionment?
A Different Perspective

Harsh truths can cause despair.

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