---
title: "Meaning & Key Takeaway of: Man wants but little here below, Nor…"
description: "\"Man wants but little here below, Nor wants that little long.\" — Oliver Goldsmith"
image: "https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/0a9/oliver-goldsmith-772_long_man-wants-but-little-here-below-nor-want_167591.png"
---

#  Man wants but little here below, Nor wants that little long.

![“Man wants but little here below, Nor wants that little long.” quote by Oliver Goldsmith](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/0a9/oliver-goldsmith-772_long_man-wants-but-little-here-below-nor-want_167591.png)   [Download](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/0a9/oliver-goldsmith-772_long_man-wants-but-little-here-below-nor-want_167591.png) [Open image](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/0a9/oliver-goldsmith-772_long_man-wants-but-little-here-below-nor-want_167591.png)

> “Man wants but little here below, Nor wants that little long.”

[Oliver Goldsmith](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/author/oliver-goldsmith/)

## About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Human desire is fleeting; people seek short‑term pleasures but long‑term fulfillment remains elusive.

**In simple terms:** People want little now, more later.

Key Takeaway

Balance immediate wants with future goals.

Themes

desire temporality philosophy

Mood

contemplative reflective

Type

philosophical motivational

When to use this quote

- consumer choices
- career planning
- relationship building
- financial budgeting

Key Concepts

hedonism aspiration contentment

Questions to Reflect On

- What truly satisfies you?
- How do you prioritize needs?

A Different Perspective

Long‑term satisfaction may be unattainable.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★   No ratings yet

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