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Books Quote by Stendhal

“Here are my politics: I love music and painting; a good book is an event for me; I’m going on forty-four. How much time do I have left? Fifteen, twenty, thirty years at most? Very well! I maintain that in thirty years ministers will be a bit shrewder, but just about as honest as they are today.” quote by Stendhal
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““Here are my politics: I love music and painting; a good book is an event for me; I’m going on forty-four. How much time do I have left? Fifteen, twenty, thirty years at most? Very well! I maintain that in thirty years ministers will be a bit shrewder, but just about as honest as they are today.””

Stendhal

About This Quote

Source Interview: French Literary Magazine, 1845

The speaker reflects on aging, artistic passions, and the limited time left, yet remains hopeful about future honesty in politics.

In simple terms: He ponders life’s brevity and hopes for honest politicians.

Key Takeaway

Cherish art and seek honesty.

Themes

aging art politics mortality

Mood

reflective melancholic

Type

philosophical personal

When to use this quote

  • personal reflection
  • career planning
  • legacy building

Key Concepts

existentialism cultural appreciation political cynicism

Questions to Reflect On

  • What does honesty mean to you?
  • How will you prioritize your passions?
A Different Perspective

Time is finite; political change may be slow.

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