“Is it not strange that desire should so many years outlive performance?”
- 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
“Is it not strange that desire should so many years outlive performance?”
Explanation
This quote from Shakespeare’s The Winter’s Tale reflects the discrepancy between longing or desire and actual accomplishment or action. The speaker expresses wonder or surprise at how desire—whether for a person, goal, or outcome—can linger or persist for many years, long after the initial spark or intention. “Desire should so many years outlive performance” suggests that, while we often have strong desires or dreams, the fulfillment of those desires, or the execution of plans, can be delayed or unrealized for a long time. This tension between wishful thinking and delayed action is something many can relate to, as desires can outlast the ability or effort to act upon them.
In modern contexts, this quote speaks to the human experience of having unfulfilled goals or dreams that seem to persist despite time passing and life’s distractions. For instance, people often carry unrealized ambitions or unmet desires for years, sometimes feeling frustrated by the gap between what they wish for and what they achieve. This may apply to aspirations in career, relationships, or personal growth, where yearning continues long after the initial motivation has faded or circumstances have changed.
Ultimately, this quote highlights the persistence of desire and the gap that can exist between what we want and what we actually do. It serves as a reflection on how longing can remain strong, even when the opportunity to fulfill it has passed or circumstances prevent it from being realized. It invites reflection on whether we should continue pursuing these desires or move on and focus on the present.
