Fancy rules over two thirds of the universe, the past and the future, while reality is confined to the present

Fancy rules over two thirds of the universe, the past and the future, while reality is confined to the present

Jean Paul Sartre, the renowned French philosopher and existentialist, delved deep into the complexities of human existence and the nature of reality. In his works, Sartre often explored the concept of time and how it shapes our perception of the world around us. The quote "Fancy rules over two thirds of the universe, the past and the future, while reality is confined to the present" can be seen as a reflection of Sartre's views on the interplay between imagination, memory, and the present moment.

Sartre believed that human consciousness is constantly projecting itself into the past and the future, creating a world of possibilities and fantasies that often overshadow the reality of the present. This idea is encapsulated in the notion that "Fancy rules over two thirds of the universe," suggesting that our thoughts and desires have a powerful influence on how we perceive the world. Our imaginations can transport us to different times and places, allowing us to escape the confines of the present moment and explore the vast expanse of the past and the future.

However, Sartre also recognized the importance of grounding ourselves in the reality of the present. He argued that true freedom and authenticity can only be achieved by embracing the here and now, rather than getting lost in the illusions of the past or the future. This is reflected in the second part of the quote, which states that "reality is confined to the present." Sartre believed that by fully engaging with the present moment, we can confront the truth of our existence and make meaningful choices that shape our lives.