The quote “The beautiful always retains the freshness of novelty, while the astonishing soon grow tiresome” speaks to the distinction between beauty and astonishment in our experiences.
Beauty is often associated with qualities that endure over time. It evokes feelings of pleasure, harmony, and deeper appreciation; it resonates with us on an emotional level. This kind of experience can be timeless—it does not lose its allure even as we become more familiar with it. For instance, consider a breathtaking landscape or a well-crafted piece of art; each time you encounter it, you might notice new details or feel moved in different ways, keeping it fresh and engaging.
On the other hand, astonishment refers to experiences that are shocking or surprising—those that catch us off guard and elicit strong reactions. While such moments can be exhilarating at first—like watching a spectacular magic trick or witnessing an extraordinary event—they often lack depth beyond their initial impact. Once we have experienced them a few times or understand how they work, they can quickly become repetitive and lose their power to amaze.
In today’s world, this idea is especially relevant in relation to consumption—both of media and personal experiences. The internet bombards us with astonishing content: viral videos, extreme stunts, sensational news stories—all aimed at grabbing our attention quickly but often failing to create lasting satisfaction or meaningful engagement. Over time, people may find themselves desensitized by constant exposure to novelty without substance.
From a personal development perspective, this quote invites reflection on what kinds of experiences we seek out for fulfillment. Focusing on cultivating an appreciation for beauty—whether through relationships that foster deep connection or pursuits like art and nature—can lead to more lasting happiness compared to chasing after fleeting moments of excitement that ultimately leave us feeling empty.
Furthermore, embracing beauty might also involve nurturing qualities within ourselves: kindness towards others fosters long-lasting bonds rather than momentary thrills from superficial interactions; patience allows us to appreciate gradual growth instead of rushing for immediate achievements.
Ultimately, this idea encourages individuals to strive for depth over superficiality in their lives—to seek out those enduring beauties that enrich our existence rather than constantly chasing after fleeting astonishments which may only lead us back into cycles of weariness.
