Broken Quote by Charles Caleb Colton
“What is earthly happiness? that phantom of which we hear so much, and see so little; whose promises are constantly given and constantly broken, but as constantly believed; that cheats us with the sound instead of the substance, and with the blossom instead of the fruit. Like Juno, she is a goddess in pursuit, but a cloud in possession.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: Thoughts on Human Nature, 1820
Happiness is portrayed as an elusive, deceptive promise that is often heard but rarely experienced, leading to perpetual disappointment.
In simple terms: Happiness is a fleeting, often unfulfilled promise.
Key Takeaway
Seek tangible fulfillment over fleeting promises.
Themes
philosophy
illusion
desire
disappointment
Mood
thoughtful
skeptical
Type
essay
reflective
When to use this quote
- goal setting
- relationship expectations
- financial planning
Key Concepts
epistemology
psychology
human nature
Questions to Reflect On
- What defines true happiness for you?
- How can you differentiate between illusion and reality?
A Different Perspective
May cause cynicism and distrust in genuine joy.
