Traveling is a fool's paradise. Our first journeys discover to us the indifference of places. At home I dream that at Naples, at Rome, I can be intoxicated with beauty, and lose my sadness. I pack my trunk, embrace my friends, embark on the sea, and at last wake up in Naples, and there beside me is the stern fact, the sad self, unrelenting, identical, that I fled from. I seek the Vatican, and the palaces. I affect to be intoxicated with sights and suggestions, but I am not intoxicated. My giant goes with me wherever I go.

Summary

This quote reflects the perspective that traveling cannot provide a true escape from oneself or personal troubles. The speaker believed that by exploring different places, they could find beauty and happiness, and leave behind their sadness. However, upon reaching their destination, they discover that the core of their emotions and identity remains unchanged. Despite visiting famous landmarks and trying to immerse themselves in the local culture, the speaker realizes that their inner struggles continue to follow them wherever they go. This realization highlights the futility of searching for external circumstances to heal internal wounds.

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