When it comes to developing a worldview, we tend to face this false division: Either you are a realist who says the world is terrible, or a nave optimist who says the world is wonderful and turns a blind eye. [Jack] Gilbert takes this middle way, and I think its a far better way: he says the world is terrible and wonderful, and your obligation is to joy. . . . A real, mature, sincere joynot a cheaply earned, ignorant joy. Hes not talking about building a fortress of pleasure against the assault of the world. Hes talking about the miraculousness of moments of wonder and how it seems to be worth it, after all.

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About Elizabeth Gilbert

Elizabeth Gilbert was a contemporary American journalist and author. Elizabeth Gilbert is an American journalist and author. Her 2006 memoir, Eat, Pray, Love, has sold over 30 million copies and has been translated into over 30 languages. Read more on Wikipedia →

Themes

  • Happiness — Thoughts on finding joy, contentment, and fulfilment

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