--- title: "Meaning & Key Takeaway of: Man has survived hitherto because he was…" description: "\"Man has survived hitherto because he was too ignorant to know how to realise his wishes- Now that he can realise them, he must either change them or p..." image: "https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/c6e/william-carlos-williams-1841_ignorance_man-has-survived-hitherto-because-he-was_462470.png" --- # Man has survived hitherto because he was too ignorant to… ![“Man has survived hitherto because he was too ignorant to know how to realise his wishes- Now that he can realise them, he must either change them or perish” quote by William Carlos Williams](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/c6e/william-carlos-williams-1841_ignorance_man-has-survived-hitherto-because-he-was_462470.png) [Download](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/c6e/william-carlos-williams-1841_ignorance_man-has-survived-hitherto-because-he-was_462470.png) [Open image](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/c6e/william-carlos-williams-1841_ignorance_man-has-survived-hitherto-because-he-was_462470.png) > “Man has survived hitherto because he was too ignorant to know how to realise his wishes- Now that he can realise them, he must either change them or perish” [William Carlos Williams](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/author/william-carlos-williams/) ## About This Quote This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation. Ignorance shielded us from desire; now that wishes are clear, we must adapt or fail. **In simple terms:** Knowing desires forces change or risk. Key Takeaway Adapt to new wishes. Themes change desire human nature Mood thoughtful cautionary Type philosophical reflective When to use this quote - career planning - relationship goals - personal development - innovation Key Concepts existentialism psychology future studies Questions to Reflect On - Are your wishes still viable? - What changes are needed to fulfill them? 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