Anticipation Quote by Francis Quarles
“Things temporal are sweeter in the expectation, things eternal are sweeter in the fruition; the first shames thy hope, the second crowns it; it is a vain journey, whose end affords less pleasure than the way.”
About This Quote
Source Poem: "The Sweetness of Expectation and Fruition", 1625
The quote contrasts fleeting anticipation with lasting fulfillment, noting that hope can be disappointing while achievement brings true satisfaction, and that the journey may be less enjoyable than the outcome.
In simple terms: Hope can be disappointing; achievement feels rewarding; the journey may be less pleasant than the result.
Key Takeaway
Value the process as much as the result.
Themes
hope
fulfillment
expectation
journey
disappointment
reward
Mood
reflective
inspirational
Type
philosophical
literary
When to use this quote
- personal goal setting
- creative projects
- long‑term planning
- mindfulness practice
Key Concepts
philosophy
psychology
literature
temporal vs eternal
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you balance anticipation with patience?
- What practices help you enjoy the journey?
A Different Perspective
Focusing only on outcomes can diminish appreciation of effort.
![“[It is hard to know what is good luck and what isn't and therefore whether we should be happy or sad about it. Only time will tell. For example...] The Talmud relates a story about two people who wanted to travel by boat. One broke his foot and was unable to make the trip, while his friend got on…” quote by Zelig Pliskin](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/68d/zelig-pliskin-22951_anticipation_it-is-hard-to-know-what-is-good-luck-and_34545.jpg)
![“The only thing is that ordinarily when I do dance with [women] they think I am suddenly going to throw them over a table or twist them all around. All I want to do is one-two, one-two-three - a simple fox trot. But they're shaking with anticipation at the thought that I'm about to whip them around…” quote by Gene Kelly](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/073/gene-kelly-11878_anticipation_the-only-thing-is-that-ordinarily-when-i_44100.jpg)
