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
All joy... emphasizes our pilgrim status; always reminds, beckons, awakens desire. Our best havings are wantings.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Joy reflects our journey through life, highlighting the importance of desire and longing.
In this quote, C. S. Lewis suggests that true joy in life is found not in the fulfillment of our desires but in the constant longing for what lies ahead. This pilgrim's journey symbolizes our transient state in life, reminding us that while we may attain certain joys, it is the desire and the journey towards these joys that truly enriches our existence.
Themes
JoyDesirePilgrimJourneyLonging
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech about the importance of pursuing dreams, one might reference this quote to highlight the significance of desire.
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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