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Disillusioned Quote by Marcel Proust

“We try to discover in things, which become precious to us on that account, the reflection of what our soul has projected on to them; we are disillusioned when we find that they are in reality devoid of the charm which they owed, in our minds, to the association of certain ideas.” quote by Marcel Proust
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““We try to discover in things, which become precious to us on that account, the reflection of what our soul has projected on to them; we are disillusioned when we find that they are in reality devoid of the charm which they owed, in our minds, to the association of certain ideas.””

Marcel Proust

About This Quote

Source Book: In Search of Lost Time, Marcel Proust, 1913

We project our own ideals onto objects, then feel disappointed when they lack the imagined charm.

In simple terms: We idealize things, then feel let down.

Key Takeaway

Check expectations against reality.

Themes

perception disappointment idealization

Mood

contemplative critical

Type

philosophical literary

When to use this quote

  • relationships
  • art appreciation
  • consumer choices

Key Concepts

subjective projection psychology

Questions to Reflect On

  • What expectations do you hold that may be unrealistic?
  • How can you appreciate things as they are?
A Different Perspective

Can lead to chronic dissatisfaction.

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