Action Quote by Spider Robinson
“This is what it is to be human: to see the essential existential futility of all action, all striving -- and to act, to strive. This is what it is to be human: to reach forever beyond your grasp. This is what it is to be human: to live forever or die trying. This is what it is to be human: to perpetually ask the unanswerable questions, in the hope that the asking of them will somehow hasten the day when they will be answered. This is what it is to be human: to strive in the face of the certainty of failure. This is what it is to be human: to persist.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: The Human Condition, Spider Robinson, 2002
The passage describes humanity’s endless pursuit despite futility, emphasizing perseverance, curiosity, and the drive to keep trying despite inevitable failure.
In simple terms: Humans keep striving and asking big questions even knowing they may fail.
Key Takeaway
Embrace persistent effort and questioning.
Themes
existentialism
perseverance
curiosity
hope
failure
Mood
thoughtful
inspirational
Type
philosophical
motivational
When to use this quote
- personal challenges
- scientific research
- artistic creation
- philosophical debate
Key Concepts
meaning of life
human drive
resilience
Questions to Reflect On
- What drives your persistence?
- How do you handle repeated setbacks?
A Different Perspective
Perseverance can lead to burnout without balance.
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