Animal Quote by John Fowles
“It is not only species of animal that die out, but whole species of feeling. And if you are wise you will never pity the past for what it did not know, but pity yourself for what it did.”
About This Quote
Source Novel: The French Lieutenant's Woman, 1969
Both living beings and emotions can become extinct; wisdom lies in self‑pity rather than lamenting unknown past.
In simple terms: Both species and feelings can die; be wise, pity yourself.
Key Takeaway
Learn from personal experience, not imagined regrets.
Themes
existence
emotion
wisdom
Mood
melancholic
reflective
Type
literary
philosophical
When to use this quote
- grief counseling
- personal growth
- creative writing
Key Concepts
philosophy
psychology
literature
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you differentiate healthy regret from self‑pity?
- What lessons can past emotions teach?
A Different Perspective
Self‑pity may hinder growth if not balanced.
