Able Quote by Samuel Johnson
“The present time is seldom able to fill desire or imagination with immediate enjoyment, and we are forced to supply its deficiencies by recollection or anticipation.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: The Idler, 1750
Present moments rarely satisfy desire; we rely on memory or anticipation to fill gaps, highlighting the mind's tendency to escape reality.
In simple terms: We fill present gaps with past or future thoughts.
Use imagination wisely to enrich life.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- creative writing
- mindfulness practice
- goal setting
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- What do you imagine to escape boredom?
- How can you balance present enjoyment with anticipation?
Living solely in memory can hinder present enjoyment.