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Bushmen Quote by Sinclair Lewis

“The greatest mystery about a human being is not his reaction to sex or praise, but the manner in which he contrives to put in twenty-four hours a day. It is this which puzzles the longshoreman about the clerk, the Londoner about the bushman.” quote by Sinclair Lewis
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“The greatest mystery about a human being is not his reaction to sex or praise, but the manner in which he contrives to put in twenty-four hours a day. It is this which puzzles the longshoreman about the clerk, the Londoner about the bushman.”

Sinclair Lewis

About This Quote

Source Book: Main Street by Sinclair Lewis, 1920

Human beings are puzzlingly busy, filling every hour with tasks, often at the expense of deeper reflection.

In simple terms: People fill time with work, ignoring meaning.

Key Takeaway

Prioritize meaningful activities over constant busyness.

Themes

time management meaning busyness human nature

Mood

reflective thoughtful analytical

Type

aphilosophical observational

When to use this quote

  • career planning
  • personal reflection
  • daily scheduling
  • work‑life balance

Key Concepts

existentialism productivity psychology

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you decide which tasks deserve your time?
  • What activities give you a sense of purpose?
A Different Perspective

Even with a full schedule, true fulfillment may remain elusive.

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