“Pleasure and action make the hours seem short.”
- April 26, 1564 – April 23, 1616
- Born in England
- Playwright, poet, actor
- Wrote many masterpieces such as “Hamlet,” “Romeo and Juliet,” and “Macbeth,” and had a great influence on English literature
Quote
“Pleasure and action make the hours seem short.”
Explanation
This quote from Shakespeare’s Othello speaks to the way in which enjoyable experiences or engagement in meaningful activities can make time feel as though it is passing more quickly. “Pleasure” refers to the enjoyment of life’s satisfying experiences, while “action” refers to being active and involved in pursuits that demand our attention. When we are immersed in things that bring us joy or purpose, the passing of time feels less significant, and the hours seem to fly by. The quote suggests that positive engagement with life, whether through enjoyment or accomplishment, can make time feel more fleeting.
In modern contexts, this idea resonates with the experiences of flow—when we are deeply engaged in an activity that we find rewarding, such as a hobby, work we are passionate about, or quality time spent with loved ones. In such moments, we often lose track of time because we are so absorbed in what we are doing. For example, when playing a sport, working on a creative project, or enjoying time with friends, the sense of time tends to slip away unnoticed, and we feel that the hours are shorter than they truly are.
Ultimately, this quote emphasizes that engagement and enjoyment in life can distract us from the passing of time, making it feel like it moves faster. It encourages us to prioritize activities that bring pleasure and purpose, as these can enhance our sense of fulfillment and help us make the most of our time.
