The Mill on the Floss Quotes
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Source: The Mill on the Floss
Author: George Eliot
We can never give up longing and wishing while we are thoroughly alive. There are certain things we feel to be beautiful and good, and we must hunger after them.
Context
This line is from the novel The Mill on the Floss, written by George Eliot (1860).
No, The Mill on the Floss isn't a dentist's favorite manufacturing facility. It's a classic novel by George Eliot (pen name of Mary Ann Evans). In the book, Maggie goes on a walk with Philip (probably near the River Floss). Maggie talks about how much happier she is now that she doesn't have hopes and dreams anymore. It's the classic pessimist's philosophy: you can't be disappointed if you're not wishing for anything.
But Philip counters Maggie, by telling her to never give up hoping. "There are certain things we feel to be beautiful and good, and we must hunger after them." Philip would make a good motivational speaker or fast food marketer.
Where you've heard it
You've heard this if someone is giving you a pep talk or really wants to go to Whataburger for dinner.
Pretentious Factor
If you were to drop this quote at a dinner party, would you get an in-unison "awww" or would everyone roll their eyes and never invite you back? Here it is, on a scale of 1-10.
Today, this quote is a little sappy, but it's not too pretentious. Just remember that pessimists don't normally take kindly to people telling them to be optimistic.