Laughing Quote by Djuna Barnes
““I also know this,’ he went on: ‘One cup poured into another makes different water; tears shed by one eye would blind if wept into another’s eye. The breast we strike in joy is not the breast we strike in pain; any man’s smile would be consternation on another’s mouth. Rear up eternal river, here comes grief! Man has no foothold that is not also a bargain. So be it! Laughing I came into Pacific Street, and laughing I’m going out of it; laughter is the pauper’s money.””
About This Quote
Source Novel: Nightwood by Djuna Barnes, 1936
Life’s experiences are unique; sharing pain or joy changes their nature, and grief is inevitable, yet laughter endures as a humble currency.
In simple terms: Shared emotions differ; laughter is a simple comfort.
Key Takeaway
Embrace humor amid hardship.
Themes
existence
emotion
grief
humor
Mood
reflective
bittersweet
Type
philosophical
literary
When to use this quote
- personal loss
- celebrations
- daily interactions
- coping with sorrow
Key Concepts
subjectivity
interdependence
impermanence
Questions to Reflect On
- How does sharing pain alter its impact?
- Can humor truly ease grief?
A Different Perspective
Laughter may not solve deep sorrow.
