The comic spirit is given to us in order that we may analyze, weigh, and clarify things in us which nettle us, or which we are outgrowing, or trying to reshape
Thornton WilderRead
Oh, earth, you're too wonderful for anybody to realize you. Do any human beings ever realize life while they live it -- every, every minute?
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote highlights the extraordinary beauty of life that often goes unnoticed by people.
Thornton Wilder's quote emphasizes the idea that the earth and life itself are filled with wonder and beauty that many people fail to appreciate fully. It prompts a reflection on mindfulness, urging individuals to be more present and to cherish each moment of their existence, as life is fleeting and often taken for granted.
Themes
LifeAppreciationAwarenessMindfulnessBeauty
In practice
Example use cases
This quote could be used during a motivational speech about appreciating life's moments.
More from Thornton Wilder
All quotes →A man looks pretty small at a wedding, George. All those good women standing shoulder to shoulder, making sure that the knot's tied in a mighty public way.
Thornton WilderRead
Good-by, Good-by, world. Good-by, Grover's Corners... Mama and Papa. Good-by to clocks ticking... and Mama's sunflowers. And food and coffee. And new-ironed dresses and hot baths...and sleeping and waking up. Oh, earth, you're too wonderful for anybody to realize you.
Thornton WilderRead
When you're safe at home you wish you were having an adventure; when you're having an adventure you wish you were safe at home.
Thornton WilderRead
Many great writers have been extraordinarily awkward in daily exchange, but the greatest give the impression that their style was nursed by the closest attention to colloquial speech.
Thornton WilderRead
I want you to try and remember what it was like to have been very young. And particularly the days when you were first in love; when you were like a person sleepwalking, and you didn’t quite see the street you were in, and didn’t quite hear everything that was said to you. You’re just a little bit crazy. Will you remember that, please?
Thornton WilderRead
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God takes our misery and suffering so seriously that he was willing to take it on himself.
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