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There is nothing either good or bad but thinking makes it so.
William Shakespeare
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Interpretation

What this quote means

Our perceptions shape our reality; what we think determines how we feel about situations.

This quote by William Shakespeare suggests that the nature of things is not inherent but is defined by our thoughts and interpretations. Essentially, situations are neutral, and it is our mindset that categorizes them as good or bad, highlighting the power of perspective in shaping our experiences and emotions.

Themes

ThinkingPerceptionRealityPhilosophyMindset

In practice

Example use cases

During a discussion on mental health, someone might say this quote to emphasize the importance of positive thinking.

More from William Shakespeare

As honour, love, obedience, troops of friends, / I must not look to have; but, in their stead, / Curses, not loud but deep, mouth-honour, breath, / Which the poor heart would fain deny, and dare not" (5.3.25-28).
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Love bears it out even to the edge of doom.
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Good company, good wine, good welcome, can make good people.
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Absence doth sharpen love, presence strengthens it; the one brings fuel, the other blows it till it burns clear.
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Lord, Lord, how this world is given to lying!
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Give it an understanding, but no tongue.
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It's always interesting about God because it's like all of the religions in the world say that they pray to the same God, and yet they ask that same one God to divide itself up and agree with this one and fight against that one.
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