Crazy Quote by Johann Wolfgang von Goethe
“He who only tastes his error will long dwell with it, will take delight in it as in a singular felicity; while he who drains it to the dregs will, if he be not crazy, find it to be what it is.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Maximen und Reflexionen, Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, 1795
The quote contrasts two attitudes toward mistakes: one who savors them as a private pleasure, and another who exhausts them completely, seeing them plainly.
In simple terms: Some people enjoy their mistakes; others confront them fully.
Recognize and confront errors rather than romanticize them.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- personal reflection
- leadership decisions
- creative processes
- conflict resolution
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- Do you tend to romanticize your mistakes?
- How can confronting errors improve your decisions?
Over‑indulgence in error can hinder learning and progress.