John Webster: 'In all our quest of greatness, like wanton boys, whose pastime is their care, we follow after bubbles, blown in the air.'

In all our quest of greatness, like wanton boys, whose pastime is their care, we follow after bubbles, blown in the air.

John Webster once said, 'In all our quest of greatness, like wanton boys, whose pastime is their care, we follow after bubbles, blown in the air.' This quote carries a profound message about the human pursuit of greatness and its inherent fickleness. It suggests that in our endeavors to achieve greatness, we often become like children chasing after bubbles, captivated by their fleeting and transient nature. This quote serves as a reminder to reflect on the true purpose of our aspirations and the importance of grounding ourselves in reality.At first glance, Webster's quote appears straightforward, highlighting the whimsical nature of our pursuit of greatness. It captures the essence of the human condition, where individuals constantly strive for success, recognition, and greatness. However, like children engrossed in their play, we often fail to recognize the fragility and emptiness of our pursuits. We become consumed by external factors and lose sight of our true values and the meaning behind our actions.Intriguingly, this quote brings to mind a philosophical concept known as existentialism, and acts as a striking parallel. Existentialism, a school of thought founded on the belief in individual existence, emphasizes the importance of acknowledging one's freedom and responsibility in creating meaning in an absurd and unpredictable world. Similar to Webster's quote, existentialism questions the pursuit of external achievements, arguing that true greatness lies in creating meaning in our own lives through genuine human connection and personal fulfillment.While both perspectives address the fragility and transience of our pursuits, they propose different solutions. Webster's quote, with its focus on the fleeting nature of bubbles, warns against becoming engrossed in superficial endeavors. It encourages individuals to reflect on their own aspirations and consider whether they align with their values and personal growth.On the other hand, existentialism suggests that true greatness lies in the pursuit of authenticity and self-actualization. Instead of chasing after external achievements, an existentialist philosophy encourages individuals to embrace their freedom and create meaning in their interactions, relationships, and personal development. By reflecting on our inherent values and desires, we can navigate our pursuit of greatness with purpose and integrity, avoiding the allure of empty bubbles.In conclusion, John Webster's quote serves as a poignant reminder of the fleeting nature of our quest for greatness. It brings to attention the tendency to become like wanton boys, captivated by the transient allure of bubbles blown in the air. Combined with the concept of existentialism, the quote invites individuals to introspect and redefine their pursuit of greatness. By focusing on creating authentic connections, personal growth, and a meaningful existence, we can transcend the ephemeral nature of bubbles and find lasting fulfillment. So, let us strive for greatness, not in a superficial manner, but by embracing our own authenticity and the fulfillment it brings.