But what is Hope? Nothing but the paint on the face of Existence; the least touch of truth rubs it off, and then we see what a hollow-cheeked harlot we have got hold of.
Lord ByronRead
All human history attests That happiness for man, - the hungry sinner! - Since Eve ate apples, much depends on dinner. ~Lord Byron, Don Juan, Canto XIII, stanza 99
Interpretation
What this quote means
Happiness is often tied to our basic needs, such as food.
In this quote, Lord Byron reflects on the fundamental connection between human happiness and our physiological needs, particularly the necessity of food. After referencing the biblical story of Eve, he suggests that since the beginning of time, the fulfillment of these basic needs has significantly influenced our well-being and happiness.
Themes
HappinessFoodNeedsHistoryWell-Being
In practice
Example use cases
During a discussion about what truly makes us happy, this quote can highlight the importance of basic needs.
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Her great merit is finding out mine; there is nothing so amiable as discernment.
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But words are things, and a small drop of ink, Falling like dew, upon a thought, produces That which makes thousands, perhaps millions, think.
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