Cyril Connolly: 'We must select the illusion which appeals to our temperament, and embrace it with passion, if we want to be happy.'

We must select the illusion which appeals to our temperament, and embrace it with passion, if we want to be happy.

In his thought-provoking quote, Cyril Connolly asserts that in order to achieve happiness, we must consciously choose the illusions that resonate with our temperament and embrace them fervently. Essentially, Connolly suggests that each individual should carefully select their desired perceptions or beliefs, understanding that their subjective reality plays a vital role in shaping their experiences. This quote carries a significant message, reminding us that our mindset and perception have the power to influence our emotional well-being.Selecting the illusions that appeal to our temperament necessitates a deep understanding of ourselves. It requires a conscious exploration of our inner thoughts, desires, and inclinations. As individuals, we possess unique perspectives and preferences, shaped by a multitude of factors such as our upbringing, experiences, and personality traits. By recognizing and embracing our individual temperament, we pave the way for a more authentic pursuit of happiness.It is important to note that the term "illusion" used by Connolly does not imply deliberate self-deception or an escape from reality. Rather, it refers to the subjective interpretation of reality, acknowledging that our perception is often influenced by our biases, emotions, and desires. In a way, our illusions shape our reality, for better or worse. This insight compels us to reflect upon the lenses through which we view the world and encourages us to be intentional in our selection.While Connolly's quote provides a valuable perspective on the pursuit of happiness, it also opens the door to an unexpected philosophical concept – that of existentialism. Existentialism poses questions about the nature of existence, emphasizing individual freedom, choice, and responsibility. In the context of Connolly's quote, existentialism prompts us to contemplate the role of personal responsibility in the pursuit of happiness.Existentialist thinkers argue that happiness and fulfillment are not predetermined outcomes but rather choices we make in the face of life's inherent uncertainties and absurdities. Through embracing our illusions, we actively shape our perceived reality, taking charge of our own happiness. Embracing an illusion involves acknowledging our freedom to choose the meaning we assign to our experiences, despite life's inherent unpredictability.Existentialism and Connolly's quote share a common thread – the recognition of our agency in creating our own happiness. Both philosophies advocate for embracing the subjective experience while acknowledging the responsibility that comes with it. While Connolly's quote focuses more on the emotional aspect of happiness, existentialism broadens the discussion to include the overall meaning and purpose we assign to our lives.Ultimately, the inherent choice inherent in Connolly's quote invites us to reflect on our own illusions and determine which ones truly align with our temperament. It challenges us to question the illusions that we inadvertently cling to, and to consciously select those that nurture our happiness. By engaging in self-reflection and embracing illusions that resonate with our true selves, we have the potential to lead a more purposeful and fulfilling life.In conclusion, Cyril Connolly's quote eloquently points out that the pursuit of happiness requires deliberate choice and passionate embrace of the illusions that align with our temperament. Understanding that our illusions shape our reality, we must take responsibility for selecting those that foster our well-being. Moreover, by incorporating elements of existentialism into the discussion, we are reminded of the freedom and responsibility we possess in creating our own happiness. By consciously and authentically embracing the illusions that resonate with our true selves, we can navigate the journey towards happiness with a greater sense of purpose and fulfillment.