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Desire Quote by Leo Tolstoy

“Himmlisch ist's wenn ich bezwungen Meine irdische Begier; Aber doch wenn's nich gelungen Hatt' ich auch recht huebsch Plaisir! Loosely translated: It is heavenly, when I overcome My earthly desires But nevertheless, when I'm not successful, It can also be quite pleasurable.” quote by Leo Tolstoy
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“Himmlisch ist's wenn ich bezwungen Meine irdische Begier; Aber doch wenn's nich gelungen Hatt' ich auch recht huebsch Plaisir! Loosely translated: It is heavenly, when I overcome My earthly desires But nevertheless, when I'm not successful, It can also be quite pleasurable.”

Leo Tolstoy

About This Quote

Source Poem: Unknown German lyric, early 20th century

Balancing the pursuit of higher ideals with earthly desires can be both challenging and rewarding.

In simple terms: Heavenly goals clash with human cravings, yet both can bring joy.

Key Takeaway

Embrace both ambition and contentment.

Themes

ambition desire spirituality

Mood

reflective contemplative

Type

philosophical poetic

When to use this quote

  • personal growth
  • creative work
  • spiritual practice

Key Concepts

dualism human nature philosophy

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you reconcile lofty goals with daily cravings?
  • What brings you joy when you fall short?
A Different Perspective

Success may be elusive, and pleasure can be fleeting.

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