A dogmatic belief in objective value is necessary to the very idea of a rule which is not tyranny or an obedience which is not slavery.
C. S. LewisRead
Joy is never in our power and pleasure often is
Interpretation
What this quote means
Joy is an intrinsic feeling beyond our control, whereas pleasure can often be pursued or obtained.
The quote by C. S. Lewis emphasizes the distinction between joy and pleasure. Joy is a deeper, more profound emotional state that often comes unexpectedly and cannot be manufactured by our will, while pleasure refers to transient feelings that can be sought after and attained through actions or experiences. This suggests that while we may strive for pleasure, true joy is often beyond our efforts and is rooted in more profound aspects of existence.
Themes
JoyPleasureHappinessControlEmotions
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech about finding contentment in life.
More from C. S. Lewis
All quotes βI enjoyed my breakfast this morning, and I think that was a good thing and do not think it was condemned by God. But I do not think myself a good man for enjoying it.
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Aim at heaven and you will get earth thrown in. Aim at earth and you get neither.
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Forgiving and being forgiven are two names for the same thing. The important thing is that a discord has been resolved.
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I pray because I can't help myself. I pray because I'm helpless. It doesn't change God - it changes me.
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The instrument through which you see God is your whole self. And if a man's self is not kept clean and bright, his glimpse of God will be blurred
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