Arthur Miller: Work a Lifetime To Pay Off
on Wednesday, October 31, 2018Arthur Miller Money Quote saying we struggle throughout our lives to attain that which has value to no one in the end. Arthur Miller said:
“Work a lifetime to pay off a house. you finally own it, and there’s nobody to live in it” — Arthur Miller
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In this quote, playwright Arthur Miller seems to be reflecting on the paradox of achieving financial security and stability late in life after a lifetime of work and sacrifice, but then lacking the capacity to fully enjoy the fruits of one’s labor. Some key points:
- Miller notes it can take an entire career (“work a lifetime”) of effort and earnings to pay off a mortgage and fully own a home free and clear.
- However, he implies that by the time this milestone of property ownership is finally reached, one is likely older and “there’s nobody to live in it” with – potentially referring to children moving out or a spouse having passed away.
- Miller’s comment conveys a sense of irony, sadness and missed opportunity – the house is no longer filled with the loved ones who provided motivation during the long struggle to become a homeowner.
- It captures the perspective that financial security may come too late to fully experience or share with family/friends, after dedicating decades to achieving it.
Overall, the quote reflects on the bittersweet nature of attaining hard-fought monetary goals late in life only to find diminished ability to enjoy the fruits of one’s labor amid changing life stages and circumstances. For Miller, prosperity alone does not equal fulfillment.