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Nothing is free. Everything has to be paid for. For every…

“Nothing is free. Everything has to be paid for. For every profit in one thing, payment in some other thing. For every life, a death. Even your music, of which we have heard so much, that had to be paid for. Your wife was the payment for your music. Hell is now satisfied.” quote by Ted Hughes
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““Nothing is free. Everything has to be paid for. For every profit in one thing, payment in some other thing. For every life, a death. Even your music, of which we have heard so much, that had to be paid for. Your wife was the payment for your music. Hell is now satisfied.””

Ted Hughes

About This Quote

Source Poem: “The Book of Nightmares” by Ted Hughes, 1971

All things demand a cost; every gain is balanced by loss, even intangible joys like music.

In simple terms: Everything costs something.

Key Takeaway

Recognize hidden costs.

Themes

balance consequence sacrifice

Mood

reflective serious

Type

philosophical cautionary

When to use this quote

  • business deals
  • artistic creation
  • personal relationships
  • ethical decisions

Key Concepts

economics mortality karma

Questions to Reflect On

  • What are the unseen prices you pay?
  • How do you evaluate worth versus cost?
A Different Perspective

Costs may be hidden or indirect, making trade‑offs hard to see.

2.7 out of 5 (9 ratings)

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