Alas Quote by Miss Read
“marrows - alas! - are arriving in a steady stream at the back door. ... Oddly enough, the majority of people who grow them in Fairacre say, as they hand them over: 'Funny thing! I don't care for them myself. In fact, none of the family likes them!' But still they plant them. It must be the fascination of seeing such a wonderful return for one small seed, that keeps marrow-growers at their dubious task.”
About This Quote
Source Short story: “Marrows” by Miss Read, 1973
People often pursue tasks they dislike because the promise of a rewarding outcome outweighs personal aversion.
In simple terms: Reward drives effort despite dislike.
Key Takeaway
Focus on the payoff.
Themes
motivation
reward
discomfort
Mood
reflective
analytical
Type
literary
philosophical
When to use this quote
- gardening
- cooking
- learning new skills
- investment
Key Concepts
behavioral economics
habit formation
Questions to Reflect On
- Why do you continue unwanted tasks?
- What is the true value of the outcome?
A Different Perspective
The task may become harmful if the reward is illusory.
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