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I haven't much time to be fond of anything ... but when I…

“I haven't much time to be fond of anything ... but when I have a moment's fondness to bestow, most times ... the roses get it. I began my life among them in my father's nursery garden, and I shall end my life among them, if I can. Yes. One of these days (please God) I shall retire from catching…” quote by Wilkie Collins
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“I haven't much time to be fond of anything ... but when I have a moment's fondness to bestow, most times ... the roses get it. I began my life among them in my father's nursery garden, and I shall end my life among them, if I can. Yes. One of these days (please God) I shall retire from catching thieves, and try my hand at growing roses.”

Wilkie Collins

About This Quote

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

The speaker values fleeting moments of affection, especially toward roses, and hopes to spend his life among them after a career of catching thieves.

In simple terms: He cherishes brief love for roses and dreams of a peaceful retirement tending them.

Key Takeaway

Seek moments of beauty even in busy life.

Themes

beauty transience redemption

Mood

reflective hopeful

Type

literary personal

When to use this quote

  • career change
  • gardening
  • retirement planning
  • finding peace

Key Concepts

affection nature career transition

Questions to Reflect On

  • What simple pleasure can you nurture daily?
  • How can you integrate beauty into a demanding job?
A Different Perspective

Retirement may not bring the tranquility imagined.

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