Meaning: The quote "What is life? A madness. What is life? An illusion, a shadow, a story. And the greatest good is little enough; for all life is a dream, and dreams themselves are only dreams" is a thought-provoking and philosophical reflection on the nature of life and existence. It encapsulates the idea that life is fleeting and ephemeral, akin to a dream or an illusion. The quote is attributed to Pedro Calderón de la Barca, a prominent Spanish dramatist of the Golden Age, known for his works that delved into themes of reality, illusion, and the nature of existence.

In this quote, Calderón de la Barca contemplates the essence of life, portraying it as a form of madness, an illusion, a fleeting shadow, and a narrative. These descriptions evoke a sense of transience and impermanence, suggesting that life is not a fixed or tangible reality but rather a transient and intangible experience. The assertion that "the greatest good is little enough" implies that even the most significant achievements or experiences in life are ultimately insufficient or inconsequential in the grand scheme of things.

The quote culminates with the assertion that "all life is a dream, and dreams themselves are only dreams." This statement further emphasizes the notion that life, like a dream, is a transient and insubstantial phenomenon. It suggests that the experiences and realities we perceive may not be as concrete or significant as they seem, drawing parallels between the illusory nature of dreams and the fleeting nature of life itself.

Calderón de la Barca's philosophical musings in this quote align with the broader themes that are prevalent in his works. As a playwright, he often explored the interplay between reality and illusion, the nature of existence, and the transient nature of human experience. His plays, such as "Life Is a Dream" (La vida es sueño), delve into similar themes, depicting characters grappling with questions of identity, free will, and the elusive nature of reality.

The quote can be interpreted as an existential reflection on the human condition, prompting contemplation on the nature of reality, the impermanence of life, and the illusory nature of our experiences. It invites individuals to ponder the fleeting and intangible aspects of existence and to consider the ultimate significance of our pursuits and aspirations.

In summary, Pedro Calderón de la Barca's quote "What is life? A madness. What is life? An illusion, a shadow, a story. And the greatest good is little enough; for all life is a dream, and dreams themselves are only dreams" encapsulates profound reflections on the transient and illusory nature of life. Through its evocative language and existential themes, the quote encourages contemplation on the ephemeral and intangible aspects of human existence, echoing the philosophical inquiries that are prevalent in Calderón de la Barca's body of work.