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Imagination Quote by Marcel Proust

“For a young man has strong imagination but poor judgment, so that he imagines others to be as big as he is but considers himself to be very small. He has unbounded trust in the universe but is constantly unsure of himself.” quote by Marcel Proust
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““For a young man has strong imagination but poor judgment, so that he imagines others to be as big as he is but considers himself to be very small. He has unbounded trust in the universe but is constantly unsure of himself.””

Marcel Proust

About This Quote

Source Book: In Search of Lost Time, 1913

A youthful mind imagines grand possibilities but doubts itself, trusting the universe while feeling insecure.

In simple terms: Young people often overestimate the world and underestimate themselves.

Key Takeaway

Balance confidence with realistic self‑assessment.

Themes

imagination self‑doubt trust

Mood

introspective hopeful

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • career decisions
  • relationships
  • creative projects
  • education

Key Concepts

growth mindset existential uncertainty

Questions to Reflect On

  • What steps can you take to test your assumptions?
  • How can you nurture trust without losing self‑confidence?
A Different Perspective

Overconfidence can lead to reckless choices.

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