“Life is thickly sown with thorns, and I know no other remedy than to pass quickly through them. The longer we dwell on our misfortunes, the greater is their power to harm us.”
- November 21, 1694 – May 30, 1778
- Born in France
- Philosopher, man of letters, historian
- Wrote many works, including “Philosophy of History,” “De Toleration,” “Philosophical Dictionary,” “Philosophical Letters,” “Oedipus,” and “Candide,” and is known as a pioneer of Enlightenment thought.
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Quote
“Life is thickly sown with thorns, and I know no other remedy than to pass quickly through them. The longer we dwell on our misfortunes, the greater is their power to harm us.”
Explanation
This quote captures Voltaire’s pragmatic philosophy on dealing with adversity. He acknowledges that life is fraught with challenges (“thorns”) but advises facing them swiftly rather than lingering on them. Dwelling on misfortunes, he suggests, amplifies their negative effects, as prolonged focus on hardships can deepen emotional pain and hinder progress.
In modern contexts, this perspective aligns with psychological insights about resilience and emotional regulation. Avoiding rumination—repeatedly revisiting negative experiences—can prevent stress and promote mental well-being. By addressing problems decisively and moving forward, individuals can regain a sense of control and reduce the lasting impact of difficulties.
A specific example of this principle is evident in recovery from failure, such as losing a job or experiencing a setback in a project. Instead of fixating on what went wrong, quickly seeking solutions, learning from the experience, and focusing on future opportunities can minimize the harm. Voltaire’s advice serves as a timeless reminder of the importance of resilience and forward momentum in overcoming life’s inevitable challenges.
