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Eden Quote by W. Somerset Maugham

“A soul is a troublesome possession, and when man developed it he lost the Garden of Eden.” quote by W. Somerset Maugham
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“A soul is a troublesome possession, and when man developed it he lost the Garden of Eden.”

W. Somerset Maugham

About This Quote

Source Novel: “The Moon and Sixpence,” 1919

Human consciousness creates desire, leading to loss of innocence and original purity.

In simple terms: Awareness brings loss of innocence.

Key Takeaway

Balance desire with humility.

Themes

desire innocence human nature

Mood

contemplative melancholic

Type

literary philosophical

When to use this quote

  • career ambition
  • spiritual quests
  • ethical dilemmas

Key Concepts

philosophy psychology existentialism

Questions to Reflect On

  • What does “Garden of Eden” symbolize for you?
  • Can desire be channeled positively?
A Different Perspective

Desire can be justified as progress.

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