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Expectations Quote by Samuel Johnson

“The hapless wit has his labors always to begin, the call for novelty is never satisfied, and one jest only raises expectation of another.” quote by Samuel Johnson
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“The hapless wit has his labors always to begin, the call for novelty is never satisfied, and one jest only raises expectation of another.”

Samuel Johnson

About This Quote

Source Essay: The Idler, 1750

The witty person is constantly busy, never satisfied, and each joke creates expectation for the next.

In simple terms: Wit leads to endless work and expectations.

Key Takeaway

Accept limits on novelty.

Themes

creativity expectation humor

Mood

reflective thoughtful

Type

observational philosophical

When to use this quote

  • writing
  • stand‑up comedy
  • social gatherings
  • online content creation

Key Concepts

perfectionism self‑criticism

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you balance originality with sustainability?
  • When does humor become a burden?
A Different Perspective

Novelty can become exhausting and unsustainable.

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