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Resisting Quote by Dorothy Dunnett

“You have only to lift your hand,' Thorkel Fostri said. And after a moment, 'What else were you born for?' 'Why not happiness, like other men?" Thorfinn said. 'You have that,' said his foster-father. 'But if you try to trap it, it will change. Why do you resist? It is your right.' 'I resist because…” quote by Dorothy Dunnett
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““You have only to lift your hand,' Thorkel Fostri said. And after a moment, 'What else were you born for?' 'Why not happiness, like other men?" Thorfinn said. 'You have that,' said his foster-father. 'But if you try to trap it, it will change. Why do you resist? It is your right.' 'I resist because it is no use resisting,' Thorfinn said. 'Do you not think that is unfair? I shall be King because I was King; and I shall die because I did die; and did I remember them, I could even tell what are the three ways it might befall me.””

Dorothy Dunnett

About This Quote

Source Novel: King Hereafter, 1995

The dialogue explores purpose, happiness, and resistance, suggesting that seeking happiness can be paradoxical and that acceptance of one's fate is essential.

In simple terms: Discusses purpose, happiness, and resistance.

Key Takeaway

Accept destiny, avoid futile resistance.

Themes

purpose happiness resistance fate philosophy

Mood

thoughtful serene introspective

Type

literary philosophical

When to use this quote

  • life decisions
  • leadership challenges
  • personal growth
  • moral dilemmas

Key Concepts

existentialism acceptance free will

Questions to Reflect On

  • What does “resisting” mean to you?
  • Can acceptance coexist with ambition?
A Different Perspective

Resisting fate may lead to stagnation.

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