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I have certainly known more men destroyed by the desire to…

“I have certainly known more men destroyed by the desire to have a wife and child and to keep them in comfort than I have seen destroyed by drink and harlots.” quote by William Butler Yeats
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“I have certainly known more men destroyed by the desire to have a wife and child and to keep them in comfort than I have seen destroyed by drink and harlots.”

William Butler Yeats

About This Quote

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

Material pursuits and family can cause more ruin than vices like alcohol.

In simple terms: Family pressures can be destructive.

Key Takeaway

Prioritize inner health over external expectations.

Themes

family materialism destruction

Mood

reflective critical

Type

philosophical cautionary

When to use this quote

  • marriage decisions
  • career choices
  • parenting
  • social expectations

Key Concepts

Societal pressure personal fulfillment addiction

Questions to Reflect On

  • Do you equate success with family?
  • What defines a healthy family life?
A Different Perspective

Not all family desires lead to ruin; context matters.

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