Walter Pater: 'To burn always with this hard, gem-like flame, to maintain this ecstasy, is success in life.'

To burn always with this hard, gem-like flame, to maintain this ecstasy, is success in life.

Walter Pater once said, 'To burn always with this hard, gem-like flame, to maintain this ecstasy, is success in life.' This quote encapsulates a powerful message about the true essence of achieving success in life. At a first glance, it suggests that success lies not in material possessions or accolades, but in experiencing an intense and continual state of passion and ecstasy. It emphasizes the importance of maintaining an unwavering dedication to our passions, allowing them to fuel and guide our journey.However, beyond this straightforward interpretation lies a deeper and more profound philosophical concept that can spark our curiosity and interest. Let us delve into the notion of duality—a concept often overlooked when discussing success but one that closely relates to Pater's quote.Duality can be understood as the existence of contrasting elements within a single entity. In the context of success, duality manifests as the coexistence of external accomplishments and internal fulfillment. To fully grasp the concept, let us examine the contrasts between material success and personal fulfillment, and how finding a delicate balance between the two is crucial to living a truly successful life.Material success, often measured by societal standards such as wealth, status, and recognition, is the external manifestation of achievement. It is the tangible evidence of hard work and dedication, reflecting our abilities to navigate the complexities of life. While these accomplishments undoubtedly hold value in our society, they alone cannot guarantee happiness or genuine fulfillment.On the other hand, personal fulfillment resides in the internal realm, transcending material possessions and achievements. It encompasses a deep sense of purpose, passion, and joy that arises from aligning our actions with our values and nurturing the flame of our innermost desires. Personal fulfillment is rooted in authenticity and self-awareness, allowing us to lead lives filled with meaning and contentment. It is the fire that Walter Pater alludes to—a hard, gem-like flame that burns with ecstasy.Bringing the concept of duality to the forefront, we can recognize that success in life cannot be solely defined by one aspect, such as material success or personal fulfillment. Instead, a balance between the two is critical. This balance does not imply a perfect equilibrium, but rather a constant negotiation and recalibration to maintain harmony between our external achievements and our internal fulfillment.In our modern society, the pursuit of material success often takes precedence over personal fulfillment, leading many to feel a sense of emptiness despite outward accomplishments. We live in a world that often urges us to chase after external validation, wealth, and recognition, inadvertently neglecting the pursuit of internal contentment. However, true success lies in finding the delicate balance, where material success serves as a tool to enable personal fulfillment, rather than an end in itself.Achieving this balance requires self-reflection, introspection, and a reassessment of our priorities. It necessitates aligning our actions and choices with our authentic selves, allowing our passions and values to guide our journey. It calls for conscious decisions that prioritize personal growth and the pursuit of happiness over societal expectations.In conclusion, Walter Pater's quote serves as a guiding light to redefine success in our lives. It reminds us that true success lies not solely in material accomplishments but in the continuous pursuit of personal fulfillment. Through the lens of duality, we unveil the importance of striking a balance between external success and internal joy, allowing our hard, gem-like flame to burn brightly. By embracing this concept, we can lead lives that are not only successful but also deeply fulfilling and meaningful.