"The world owes all its onward impulses to men ill at ease. The happy man inevitably confines himself within ancient limits"
- Nathaniel Hawthorne
About this Quote
This quote by Nathaniel Hawthorne recommends that it is those who are not content with the status quo who drive progress and innovation. Hawthorne implies that those who are content with the world as it is, or "happy," will not press the boundaries of what is possible. Rather, it is those who are "ill at ease" and disappointed with the existing state of affairs who will aim to make the world a much better place. This quote highlights the significance of frustration in driving development and development. Without those who are not content with the world as it is, the world would remain stagnant and not able to move on.
"I was married to Margaret Joan Howe in 1940. Although not a scientist herself she has contributed more to my work than anyone else by providing a peaceful and happy home"
"Try to be happy in this present moment, and put not off being so to a time to come, as though that time should be of another make from this which has already come and is ours"
