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Milo Quote by Norton Juster

“As you can see, that leaves almost no time for brooding, lagging, plodding, or procrastinating, and if we stopped to think or laugh, we’d never get nothing done.” “You mean you’d never get anything done,” corrected Milo. “We don’t want to get anything done,” snapped another angrily; “we want to…” quote by Norton Juster
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““As you can see, that leaves almost no time for brooding, lagging, plodding, or procrastinating, and if we stopped to think or laugh, we’d never get nothing done.” “You mean you’d never get anything done,” corrected Milo. “We don’t want to get anything done,” snapped another angrily; “we want to get nothing done, and we can do that without your help.””

Norton Juster

About This Quote

Source Book: The Phantom Tollbooth by Norton Juster, 1961

The quote sat how avoiding contemplation, laughter, or hesitation leads to constant activity without meaningful results, and that some prefer in to do nothing at all.

In simple terms: Avoiding reflection and humor results in endless, pointless activity.

Key Takeaway

Embrace pause and humor for purposeful work.

Themes

productivity meaninglessness humor reflection

Mood

ironic critical reflective

Type

aphilosophical satirical

When to use this quote

  • workplace meetings
  • creative projects
  • personal routines
  • team dynamics

Key Concepts

existentialism paradox time management

Questions to Reflect On

  • What would happen if you allowed yourself to pause?
  • How does humor change your perception of work?
A Different Perspective

Constant busyness can mask lack of direction and fulfillment.

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