“I love those who yearn for the impossible.”
- August 28, 1749 – March 22, 1832
- German
- Poet, playwright, novelist, philosopher, politician
- His literary works “Faust” and “The Sorrows of Young Werther” had a major impact on world literature.
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Quote
“I love those who yearn for the impossible.”
Explanation
Goethe expresses admiration for individuals who dream big and set their sights on goals that may seem unattainable. It is the yearning for the impossible that drives innovation, creativity, and progress. Those who dare to pursue what others might deem unrealistic often challenge the status quo and push the boundaries of what is considered possible. Their vision and determination are what inspire change in the world.
Historically, this sentiment reflects Goethe’s own values as a Romantic thinker, where the pursuit of the ideal and the visionary was held in high regard. The Romantic movement emphasized the importance of individual expression and the belief that true greatness comes from pursuing one’s dreams, no matter how ambitious or difficult.
In the modern world, this message is especially relevant in fields like technology, art, and social change. Visionaries like Steve Jobs or Marie Curie, who yearned for things that were considered impossible in their times, transformed entire industries. Their passion and perseverance in the face of challenges were integral to their success.
Goethe’s words encourage us to embrace the unrealistic and impossible, as it is through such aspirations that we not only shape the future but also grow beyond our own limitations. It is the desire for something greater that propels humanity forward and fosters both personal and collective evolution.
