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Appetite Quote by Aldous Huxley

“Most men and women lead lives at the worst so painful, at the best so monotonous, poor and limited that the urge to escape, the longing to transcend themselves if only for a few moments, is and has always been one of the principal appetites of the soul.” quote by Aldous Huxley
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“Most men and women lead lives at the worst so painful, at the best so monotonous, poor and limited that the urge to escape, the longing to transcend themselves if only for a few moments, is and has always been one of the principal appetites of the soul.”

Aldous Huxley

About This Quote

Source Essay: The Perennial Philosophy, 1945

Human souls seek escape and transcendence from suffering and monotony, a timeless appetite.

In simple terms: People crave escape from pain and routine.

Key Takeaway

Pursue moments of transcendence.

Themes

suffering monotony escape transcendence appetite

Mood

melancholic hopeful

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • creative writing
  • artistic expression
  • meditation
  • travel
  • mindful breaks

Key Concepts

existentialism psychology spirituality

Questions to Reflect On

  • What moments give you a sense of transcendence?
  • How can you find meaning within routine?
A Different Perspective

Escaping can lead to avoidance rather than growth.

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