Depression Quote by Marie-Louise von Franz
““Depressions and melancholy are often a cover for tremendous greed. At the beginning of an analysis there is often a depressed state of resignation-life has no meaning, there is no feeling of being in life. An exaggerated state can develop into complete lameness. Quite young people give the impression of having the resignation of a bitter old man or woman. When you dig into such a black mood you find that behind it there is overwhelming greed-for being loved, for being very rich, for having the right partner, for being the top dog, etc. Behind such a melancholic resignation you will often discover in the darkness a recurring theme which makes things very difficult, namely if you give such people one bit of hope, the lion opens its mouth and you have to withdraw, and then they put the lid on again, and so it goes on, back and forth.””
About This Quote
Source Book: Psychological Types by Carl Jung, 1921
Depression can mask deep desire for love, wealth, status, and control, turning melancholy into a hidden greed that fuels hope‑driven cycles.
In simple terms: Melancholy often hides strong, selfish cravings.
Key Takeaway
Recognize hidden motives behind sadness.
Themes
psychology
greed
melancholy
hope
identity
Mood
reflective
somber
Type
analytical
insightful
When to use this quote
- therapy sessions
- relationship counseling
- career coaching
- personal reflection
Key Concepts
Jungian analysis
shadow work
motivation
Questions to Reflect On
- What unmet need fuels your sadness?
- How does hope become a trap?
A Different Perspective
Hope can be manipulated, leading to dependency and disappointment.
![“If a man devotes himself to the instructions of his own unconscious, it can bestow this gift [of renewal], so that suddenly life, which has been stale and dull, turns into a rich unending inner adventure, full of creative possibilities” quote by Marie-Louise von Franz](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/be6/marie-louise-von-franz-13561_adventure_if-a-man-devotes-himself-to-the-instruct_625916.jpg)
