Bad habit Quote by Philip Larkin
““Always too eager for the future, we Pick up bad habits of expectancy. Something is always approaching; every day Till then we say, Watching from a bluff the tiny, clear, Sparkling armada of promises draw near. How slow they are! And how much time they waste, Refusing to make haste! Yet still they leave us holding wretched stalks Of disappointment, for, though nothing balks Each big approach, leaning with brasswork prinked, Each rope distinct, Flagged, and the figurehead with golden tits Arching our way, it never anchors; it's No sooner present than it turns to past. Right to the last We think each one will heave to and unload All good into our lives, all we are owed For waiting so devoutly and so long. But we are wrong: Only one ship is seeking us, a black- Sailed unfamiliar, towing at her back A huge and birdless silence. In her wake No waters breed or break. - Next, Please ””
About This Quote
Source Poem: “Next, Please”, Philip Larkin, 1972
Excessive anticipation leads to wasted time and disappointment; true fulfillment comes from the present, not endless future promises.
In simple terms: Waiting too much for the future wastes time; focus on now.
Key Takeaway
Live in the present, not future fantasies.
Themes
anticipation
patience
disappointment
Mood
contemplative
melancholic
Type
poetic
philosophical
When to use this quote
- career planning
- relationship goals
- personal projects
Key Concepts
temporal focus
expectancy
mindfulness
Questions to Reflect On
- What expectations are you postponing?
- How can you savor present moments?
A Different Perspective
Future focus can cause chronic dissatisfaction.
