Meaning: This quote, attributed to Howard Lindsay, captures the essence of the human experience with its profound insight into the duality of life. The quote suggests that life is a mixture of hardships and joys, with the promise of both hunger and pain alongside beauty and satisfaction. It speaks to the unpredictable nature of life and the fleeting nature of these experiences.

In the first part of the quote, the mention of "hunger, and pain, and sleepless nights" evokes a sense of struggle and adversity. These are universal experiences that all individuals encounter at some point in their lives. Hunger and pain are physical sensations that can be both distressing and motivating. They remind us of our vulnerability and the limitations of the human body. Sleepless nights, on the other hand, represent the mental and emotional toll that life can take on individuals. This part of the quote acknowledges the inevitability of hardships and challenges that are an intrinsic part of the human condition.

The quote then takes a turn, introducing the idea of "beauty, and satisfactions known to few, and glimpses of the heavenly life." Here, the contrast is stark, as the darkness of hunger and pain is juxtaposed with the light of beauty and rare satisfactions. This part of the quote suggests that amidst the struggles and suffering, there are moments of profound beauty and joy that are not easily accessible to everyone. These moments may come in the form of love, success, or moments of pure happiness and contentment. They serve as reminders of the richness and complexity of life.

The final part of the quote states, "None of these you shall have continually, and of their coming and going you shall not be foretold." This line further emphasizes the transient nature of these experiences. It conveys the idea that these moments of joy and suffering are fleeting and unpredictable. They come and go without warning, and no one can escape the ebb and flow of life's ups and downs. This part of the quote serves as a reminder to cherish the moments of happiness and to endure the moments of hardship with the understanding that they are impermanent.

Overall, the quote by Howard Lindsay encapsulates the multifaceted nature of the human experience. It acknowledges the inevitability of hardship and struggle while also highlighting the moments of beauty and joy that make life worth living. It serves as a poignant reminder to embrace life in all its complexity and to find meaning in the balance between suffering and moments of bliss.