Desire Quote by Tom Robbins
““There is plenty of misery in the world, all right, but there is ample pleasure, as well. If a person forswears pleasure in order to avoid misery, what has he gained?...how can you admire a human who consciously embraces the bland, the mediocre, and the safe rather than risk the suffering that disappointments can bring?...If desire causes suffering, it may be because we do not desire wisely, or that we are inexpert at obtaining what we desire...why not get better at fulfilling desire? I cannot believe that the most delicious things were placed here merely to test us, to tempt us, to make it the more difficult for us to achieve the grand prize - they safety of the void. To fashion of life such a petty game is unworthy of both men and gods.””
About This Quote
Source Novel: Still Life with Woodpecker, 1980
Life offers both suffering and joy; avoiding pain by rejecting pleasure limits growth. Wise desire leads to fulfillment, while fearing disappointment stifles potential.
In simple terms: Balancing desire and risk leads to a richer life.
Key Takeaway
Pursue meaningful desires despite fear of failure.
Themes
philosophy
life
desire
Mood
reflective
inspirational
Type
philosophical
motivational
When to use this quote
- Personal development
- creative pursuits
- relationship building
- career choices
Key Concepts
Existentialism
risk-reward
human nature
Questions to Reflect On
- What desires are you avoiding?
- How can you pursue them safely?
A Different Perspective
Overemphasis on risk can cause unnecessary anxiety.
![“Teaching might even be the greatest of the arts since the medium is the human mind and spirit. My three [great teachers] did not tell - they catalyzed a burning desire to know. Under their influence, the horizons sprung wide and fear went away and the unknown became knowable. But most important of…” quote by John Steinbeck](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/84c/john-steinbeck-71_art_teaching-might-even-be-the-greatest-of-t_1738.jpg)
