Defined Quote by Henry David Thoreau
“Heaven might be defined as the place which men avoid.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: Walden, Henry David Thoreau, 1854
People often avoid places that seem too perfect or ideal, fearing loss of freedom or responsibility.
In simple terms: People avoid ideal places.
Key Takeaway
Question why we fear perfection.
Themes
conformity
avoidance
idealism
Mood
reflective
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- career decisions
- spiritual seeking
- political activism
Key Concepts
existentialism
social pressure
Questions to Reflect On
- What does “heaven” mean to you?
- Do you avoid places that seem too good?
A Different Perspective
Perfection may bring hidden constraints.
![“The self is defined psychologically as the psychic totality of the individual. Anything that a [person] postulates as being a greater totality than [oneself] can become a symbol of the self. For this reason the symbol of the self is not always as total as the definition would require.” quote by Carl Jung](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/251/carl-jung-274_defined_the-self-is-defined-psychologically-as-t_7148.jpg)
