George Eliot: 'Failure after long perseverance is much grander than never to have a striving good enough to be called a failure.'

Failure after long perseverance is much grander than never to have a striving good enough to be called a failure.

One of the most inspiring quotes by George Eliot declares, "Failure after long perseverance is much grander than never to have a striving good enough to be called a failure." At its core, this profound statement reminds us that the process of striving, even if it culminates in failure, is far more magnificent than never attempting anything at all. Eliot's words evoke a sense of admiration for those who have the courage to persist in their pursuits, regardless of the outcome. It highlights the idea that the journey itself, filled with dedication, resilience, and determination, holds immeasurable value. However, to truly delve deeper into the essence of this quote, let us introduce the concept of existentialism and explore how it contrasts and enhances Eliot's perspective.Existentialism posits that individuals are solely responsible for creating their own meaning and purpose in a seemingly meaningless world. It emphasizes personal freedom, choice, and the significance of embracing one's authentic self. When applying this existential lens to Eliot's quote, a fascinating paradox arises. On one hand, striving toward a goal, even if it ends in failure, aligns with existential values by embracing and asserting personal agency. The act of persevering symbolizes the individual's commitment to shaping their own destiny, regardless of the outcome. In this context, failure becomes a testament to one's autonomy and determination, solidifying their existence and significance.On the other hand, existentialism challenges the idea of goal-oriented striving by questioning whether our pursuits are inherently meaningful. From an existential perspective, attaching our sense of worth and value solely to external achievements can lead to a sense of emptiness and inauthenticity. While failure after long perseverance may be grand, it also raises inquiries concerning the underlying motivations driving us to strive. Are we genuinely pursuing our dreams, or are we succumbing to societal expectations and constructs of success? Perhaps excellence lies not in achieving certain goals, but in embracing the journey itself, fostering personal growth, and living in alignment with our deepest values and passions.This juxtaposition between the grandness of persevering despite failure and the existential questioning of the pursuit's innate meaning creates a thought-provoking dialogue. It encourages us to introspect and evaluate the true reasons behind our pursuits. Are we striving for external validation or chasing after what genuinely brings us joy and fulfillment? Eliot's quote serves as an entry point for exploring these existential quandaries, urging us to find harmony between perseverance and authentic self-discovery.Ultimately, the true beauty of Eliot's quote lies in its ability to inspire individuals to embark on their own journeys, embracing both the risk of failure and the possibility of self-actualization. It teaches us that failure, when accompanied by long perseverance, is not something to be feared or avoided, but rather a mark of courage and resilience. In this respect, Eliot's quote offers us a profound lesson in the pursuit of personal growth and the quest for a meaningful existence. By intertwining the intricate concepts of perseverance and existentialism, we redefine our understanding of success and failure, inviting us to embrace the grandness of the effort itself, rather than solely fixating on the outcome.