“ In this world one is seldom reduced to make a selection between two alternatives. There are as many varieties of conduct and opinion as there are turns of feature between an aquiline nose and a flat one. ”
Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, The Sorrows of Young Werther (1774). copy citation
| Author | Johann Wolfgang von Goethe |
|---|---|
| Source | The Sorrows of Young Werther |
| Topic | opinion choice alternatives variety |
| Date | 1774 |
| Language | English |
| Reference | |
| Note | Translated by R. D. Boylan |
| Weblink | http://www.gutenberg.org/files/2527/2527-h/2527-h.htm |
Context
“Believe me, dear Wilhelm, I did not allude to you when I spoke so severely of those who advise resignation to inevitable fate. I did not think it possible for you to indulge such a sentiment. But in fact you are right. I only suggest one objection. In this world one is seldom reduced to make a selection between two alternatives. There are as many varieties of conduct and opinion as there are turns of feature between an aquiline nose and a flat one.
You will, therefore, permit me to concede your entire argument, and yet contrive means to escape your dilemma.
Your position is this, I hear you say: "Either you have hopes of obtaining Charlotte, or you have none.” source
You will, therefore, permit me to concede your entire argument, and yet contrive means to escape your dilemma.
Your position is this, I hear you say: "Either you have hopes of obtaining Charlotte, or you have none.” source
Meaning and analysis
