Ambition Quote by Gustave Flaubert
“I go dreaming into the future, where I see nothing, nothing. I have no plans, no idea, no project, and, what is worse, no ambition. Something – the eternal ‘what’s the use?’ – sets its bronze barrier across every avenue that I open up in the realm of hypothesis.”
About This Quote
Source Letter: Gustave Flaubert to a friend, 1862
The writer expresses a nihilistic view of the future, lacking plans, ideas, or ambition, feeling blocked by a pervasive sense of futility that hinders any speculative endeavor.
In simple terms: He feels blocked by futility, lacking ambition or plans.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and confront feelings of futility to regain purpose.
Themes
nihilism
uncertainty
motivation
existential dread
Mood
melancholic
contemplative
Type
existential
motivational
When to use this quote
- career planning
- artistic projects
- personal development
Key Concepts
future‑orientation
goal‑setting
creative block
Questions to Reflect On
- What small purpose can you identify today?
- How might you reframe “use” in a personal context?
A Different Perspective
A sense of meaninglessness can be deeply entrenched, making change difficult.
