To lose one's self in reverie, one must be either very happy, or very unhappy. Reverie is the child of extremes

To lose one's self in reverie, one must be either very happy, or very unhappy. Reverie is the child of extremes

Antoine Rivarol, a French writer and satirist known for his wit and sharp observations, once famously said, “To lose one's self in reverie, one must be either very happy, or very unhappy. Reverie is the child of extremes.” This statement speaks to the idea that moments of deep contemplation and daydreaming often arise from intense emotional states.

Rivarol's words suggest that when we are in a state of extreme happiness or unhappiness, our minds are more likely to wander and drift into reverie. In times of great joy, our minds may wander as we savor the moment and imagine all the possibilities that lie ahead. We may find ourselves lost in thoughts of love, success, and fulfillment, allowing our imaginations to run wild with excitement and optimism. On the other hand, in moments of profound sadness or despair, our minds may seek solace in reverie as a means of escape from the harsh realities of life. We may retreat into a world of fantasy and nostalgia, where we can temporarily forget our troubles and find comfort in our dreams.

Rivarol's assertion that reverie is the child of extremes also suggests that these moments of deep contemplation are born out of intense emotional experiences. It is in the highs and lows of life that we are most likely to lose ourselves in reverie, as these extreme emotions stir our imaginations and prompt us to reflect on our lives and the world around us. In this sense, reverie can be seen as a coping mechanism, a way for us to process and make sense of our emotions in times of great intensity.

Overall, Rivarol's words remind us of the power of reverie to transport us to another world, where we can explore our deepest desires and fears. Whether we find ourselves lost in reverie due to happiness or unhappiness, these moments of contemplation allow us to connect with our innermost thoughts and emotions, providing us with a temporary escape from the complexities of life.