Covetousness Quote by Joseph Addison
“Nothing lies on our hands with such uneasiness as time. Wretched and thoughtless creatures! In the only place where covetousness were a virtue we turn prodigals.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: The Spectator, 1712
Time creates anxiety; humans are restless and selfish, yet covetousness is praised.
In simple terms: Time makes us uneasy; we are selfish.
Reflect on time’s pressure.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- personal planning
- ethical debates
- literary analysis
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How does time influence moral choices?
- Can selfishness be redirected positively?
May ignore positive aspects of ambition.