Quote by William Butler Yeats
Being Irish, he had an abiding sense of tragedy, which sustained him through temporary periods of joy.

Summary
This quote reflects the stereotype that the Irish have a deep connection to tragedy and a more somber outlook on life. It suggests that despite experiencing moments of happiness, this individual's inherent Irishness and cultural background have instilled in him a lasting awareness of the transience of joy. The notion of tragedy acts as a constant lens through which he views life, serving as a source of inner strength during fleeting periods of contentment.