Again and again Quote by Rebecca West
“Destiny is another name for humanity's half-hearted yet persistent search for death. Again and again peoples have had the chance to live and show what would happen if human life were irrigated by continual happiness; and they have preferred to blow up the canals and perish of drought.”
About This Quote
Source Novel: The Return of the Soldier, 1918
Human beings often seek meaning through suffering, preferring hardship over sustained happiness.
In simple terms: People chase pain instead of joy.
Key Takeaway
Embrace lasting happiness.
Themes
existentialism
human nature
search for meaning
Mood
reflective
melancholic
Type
philosophical
literary
When to use this quote
- personal growth
- mental health
- philosophical reflection
- cultural critique
- spiritual practice
Key Concepts
nihilism
paradox
self‑destruction
Questions to Reflect On
- What drives the attraction to hardship?
- How can we nurture enduring joy?
A Different Perspective
Happiness can be fragile and require active cultivation.
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