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Along for the ride Quote by Philip Roth

“The fact remains that getting people right is not what living is all about anyway. It's getting them wrong that is living, getting them wrong and wrong and wrong and then, on careful reconsideration, getting them wrong again. That's how we know we're alive: we're wrong. Maybe the best thing would…” quote by Philip Roth
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““The fact remains that getting people right is not what living is all about anyway. It's getting them wrong that is living, getting them wrong and wrong and wrong and then, on careful reconsideration, getting them wrong again. That's how we know we're alive: we're wrong. Maybe the best thing would be to forget about being right or wrong about people and just go along for the ride. But if you can do that—well, lucky you.””

Philip Roth

About This Quote

Source Novel: The Counterlife, 1998

Life is about making mistakes with people, not achieving certainty; embracing error is essential.

In simple terms: Living means making mistakes with others.

Key Takeaway

Accept imperfection in relationships.

Themes

error humanity acceptance

Mood

thoughtful philosophical

Type

literary reflective

When to use this quote

  • friendships
  • romantic relationships
  • family dynamics
  • career mentorship

Key Concepts

existentialism psychology

Questions to Reflect On

  • Can you let go of being right?
  • What does embracing error teach you?
A Different Perspective

Constantly seeking rightness can create anxiety.

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