Dreams Quote by Virginia Woolf
““Why, from the very windows, even in the dusk, you see a swelling run through the street, an aspiration, as with arms outstretched, eyes desiring, mouths agape. And then we peaceably subside. For if the exaltation lasted we should be blown like foam into the air. The stars would shine through us. We should go down the gale in salt drops- as sometimes happens. For the impetuous spirits will have none of this cradling. Never any swaying or aimlessly lolling for them. Never any making believe, or lying cosily, or genially supposing that one is much like another, fire warm, wine pleasant, extravagance a sin.””
About This Quote
Source Novel: Mrs Dalloway, 1925
The passage describes fleeting aspirations that rise and fall, suggesting that sustained exaltation would dissolve us, so we settle into calm, ordinary existence.
In simple terms: Aspirations rise then settle; extreme exaltation would destroy us.
Key Takeaway
Accept calm over relentless striving.
Themes
aspiration
calm
human nature
transience
balance
Mood
contemplative
melancholic
Type
literary
philosophical
When to use this quote
- creative writing
- personal reflection
- art criticism
Key Concepts
existentialism
psychology
literary metaphor
Questions to Reflect On
- Do you resist or embrace fleeting aspirations?
- How does calm affect your creativity?
A Different Perspective
The idea assumes calm is preferable; some may seek intense passion.
