In simple terms, the statement suggests that trying to pursue happiness directly may be futile and counterproductive. The speaker believes that actively seeking happiness does not lead to any significant outcomes or improvements in life.
On a deeper level, this quote reflects broader philosophical views on the nature of happiness and human desires. It implies that happiness is often elusive when it is pursued as an end goal itself. Instead, genuine contentment might stem from finding fulfillment in other aspects of life such as personal achievements, meaningful relationships, or engaging activities. The speaker seems to suggest that happiness can be a byproduct of living a rich and fulfilling life rather than something one can actively seek out.
Anna Held (1866-1918) was an American stage actress and businesswoman who rose to prominence during the late 19th century. She is known for her successful career in vaudeville, minstrel shows, and Broadway productions, where she performed under various stage names before adopting "Anna Held." Her quote reflects both her personal philosophy on life and her practical approach to achieving success through hard work and dedication rather than chasing elusive ideals like happiness directly.
