Lost are we, and are only so far punished, That without hope we live on in desire.
What's the meaning of this quote?
Quote Meaning: The quote "Lost are we, and are only so far punished, That without hope we live on in desire," encapsulates a profound reflection on the human condition, particularly the experience of being adrift in life and the enduring power of desire despite the absence of hope.
At its core, the quote suggests a state of being lost, not merely in a physical sense, but more significantly, in a metaphysical and existential sense. It portrays a feeling of aimlessness or disorientation, where individuals find themselves without a clear direction or purpose. This sense of being lost implies a form of punishment — not in a punitive sense from an external force, but rather as a consequence of our own condition as human beings. It highlights a fundamental vulnerability and uncertainty inherent in human existence.
Moreover, the quote emphasizes the peculiar paradox of human nature: the persistence of desire even in the absence of hope. Desire, in this context, refers to the yearning, longing, or craving for something beyond our current grasp or comprehension. It is a force that propels us forward, driving us to seek fulfillment, meaning, or a sense of purpose despite the bleakness of our circumstances. This desire can manifest in various forms — aspirations, dreams, ambitions, or even basic needs — and serves as a crucial motivator in our lives.
The phrase "live on in desire" suggests that despite the despair or hopelessness that may accompany being lost, humans continue to exist with an enduring passion or hunger for something more. This desire can serve as a source of resilience, prompting individuals to persevere through hardships, seek new opportunities, or strive for personal growth and fulfillment.
In a broader philosophical sense, the quote touches upon themes of existentialism and the human quest for meaning. It invites contemplation on how we navigate the complexities of life when faced with uncertainty and adversity. It challenges us to reflect on our capacity to find purpose and maintain a sense of agency even in the absence of clear guidance or assurance.
Ultimately, the quote resonates with anyone who has experienced moments of doubt, confusion, or longing. It acknowledges the challenges inherent in the human journey while affirming the indomitable spirit that continues to strive, seek, and hope against all odds. It captures a poignant truth about the human condition — that even in our darkest moments, our desires and aspirations can illuminate a path forward, offering glimpses of meaning and purpose in the midst of uncertainty.
Who said the quote?
The quote "Lost are we, and are only so far punished, That without hope we live on in desire." is often attributed to Dante Alighieri (Bio / Quotes). Dante Alighieri was an Italian poet and writer who is best known for his epic poem "The Divine Comedy.
Is there a historical example that illustrates the message of the quote?
The quote "Lost are we, and are only so far punished, That without hope we live on in desire" reflects a state of despair and longing in the absence of hope. A historical example that captures this sentiment can be found in the story of the Russian serfs in the 19th century, particularly during the time leading up to the Emancipation Reform of 1861.
Before the reform, Russian serfs were bound to the land they worked on, owned by their landowners, and had little control over their own lives. They lived in a state of perpetual hardship and exploitation, their existence defined by their inability to escape the grinding poverty and lack of freedom. This condition can be seen as a form of being "lost"—trapped in a cycle with no apparent way out, leading to a condition where the desire for change and improvement was ever-present, yet hope seemed distant.
During this period, many serfs experienced a profound sense of hopelessness. Despite their constant longing for better lives and the freedom that they lacked, their reality seemed inescapable. The serfs' existence was a continual struggle, marked by the punishment of their oppressive circumstances and the unfulfilled desire for a better future.
The Emancipation Reform of 1861, initiated by Tsar Alexander II, aimed to address these grievances by liberating the serfs and granting them personal freedom. This historical moment illustrates the transition from a state of being lost and punished by their circumstances to a new era where hope could begin to take root. The reform was a critical step in transforming the lives of millions of people who had lived in a state of persistent desire without hope. It was a recognition of their plight and an attempt to rectify the deep-seated injustices that had kept them trapped in despair.
How can the quote be applied in a real-life scenario?
In real life, the quote can be applied to situations where individuals or groups find themselves in challenging circumstances, struggling with a lack of direction or hope. One illustrative example might be the experience of someone dealing with long-term unemployment. Imagine a person who has been searching for a job for several years but has faced constant rejections. Over time, the lack of success and opportunities can lead to a state of despair. They may feel lost in their situation, punished by the unending struggle and the ongoing sense of failure.
In this scenario, the individual might be living in a state of desire for a breakthrough, hoping for a change that seems elusive. The quote captures their emotional state—desiring a better situation yet feeling as though hope is out of reach. The continual rejection and absence of progress can lead to a sense of being trapped in a cycle of disappointment.
However, this quote also serves as a reminder that even in the most desperate situations, there is a possibility for change. It underscores the importance of perseverance and the pursuit of hope, even when it seems distant. For the person experiencing long-term unemployment, the path forward might involve seeking new skills, networking, or exploring different career opportunities. The journey may be fraught with challenges, but maintaining hope and continuing to strive for improvement can eventually lead to a breakthrough.
This quote encourages individuals to hold on to their desires for a better future and not to lose hope, even when their current circumstances seem bleak. It emphasizes that while the struggle may be intense and hope may appear far off, the desire for change can be a powerful motivator that eventually leads to transformation and progress.
Chief Editor
Tal Gur is an author, founder, and impact-driven entrepreneur at heart. After trading his daily grind for a life of his own daring design, he spent a decade pursuing 100 major life goals around the globe. His journey and most recent book, The Art of Fully Living, has led him to found Elevate Society.
