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Enjoyment Quote by John Steinbeck

“Lord, how the day passes! It’s like a life—so quickly when we don’t watch it and so slowly when we do. No,” he said, “I’m having enjoyment. And I made a promise to myself that I would not consider enjoyment a sin. I take a pleasure in inquiring into things. I’ve never been content to pass a stone…” quote by John Steinbeck
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““Lord, how the day passes! It’s like a life—so quickly when we don’t watch it and so slowly when we do. No,” he said, “I’m having enjoyment. And I made a promise to myself that I would not consider enjoyment a sin. I take a pleasure in inquiring into things. I’ve never been content to pass a stone without looking under it. And it is a black disappointment to me that I can never see the far side of the moon.””

John Steinbeck

About This Quote

Source Book: The Grapes of Wrath, John Steinbeck, 1939

Life feels fleeting when unobserved and drags when over‑examined; seeking enjoyment and curiosity counters emptiness.

In simple terms: Time speeds up or slows based on awareness; cherish curiosity.

Key Takeaway

Live mindfully and pursue curiosity.

Themes

time perception mindfulness curiosity

Mood

reflective thoughtful

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • daily routines
  • creative projects
  • learning new skills
  • travel

Key Concepts

existentialism humanism

Questions to Reflect On

  • What moments do you let slip by unnoticed?
  • How can you balance observation with action?
A Different Perspective

Over‑analysis can lead to paralysis, preventing enjoyment.

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