"Life ought to be a struggle of desire toward adventures whose nobility will fertilize the soul"
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Rebecca West's quote, "Life ought to be a struggle of desire toward adventures whose nobility will fertilize the soul", suggests an approach of living that stresses the pursuit of meaningful and improving experiences. At its core, this statement can be broken down into a couple of key components: struggle, desire, experience, and the ultimate fertilization of the soul.
The word "struggle" indicates that life is not indicated to be simple or without difficulties. It recommends that engagement with difficulty or dispute is a natural and necessary part of the human experience. This battle is not aimless however driven by desire, showing that a person's passions and yearnings need to direct their actions. Desire is an effective incentive and, in this context, it forces people to seek out experiences that are fulfilling and improving.
The mention of "experiences whose nobility" points to the kind of experiences worth pursuing. Experiences are usually associated with expedition and the unknown, requiring nerve and a desire to step outside one's convenience zone. The adjective "nobility" further improves this principle, suggesting that the adventures need to have a moral or ethical measurement that elevates the soul. These are not simply any pursuits however those that bring a greater purpose or value, which contribute to individual growth and knowledge.
Lastly, the phrase "fertilize the soul" speaks with the ultimate benefit of such a life approach. Simply as fertilizer improves the soil to promote growth, these noble experiences cultivate and boost the inner self. This development is not purely intellectual or physical however deeply spiritual and psychological, leading to a more fulfilled and enlightened existence.
In essence, West advocates for a life that welcomes the difficulties of pursuing heartfelt desires through honorable adventures, rewarding us with a richer and more informed inner life. This viewpoint encourages people to look for significant experiences that contribute to their individual and spiritual development.
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