Meaning: The quote "Ambition is a lust that is never quenched, but grows more inflamed and madder by enjoyment" by Thomas Otway, a 17th-century English dramatist, encapsulates the complex and insatiable nature of ambition. Otway, known for his tragic plays and poetic works, delves into the psychological and emotional aspects of human desires, particularly the relentless pursuit of ambition.

Ambition is often defined as a strong desire to achieve something, typically requiring determination and hard work. It is a driving force that compels individuals to set goals, pursue success, and strive for excellence in various aspects of their lives. However, Otway's quote delves deeper into the darker and more consuming side of ambition, likening it to a "lust" that is never satisfied and only intensifies with each accomplishment.

The comparison of ambition to "lust" suggests a primal and insatiable craving that cannot be easily satiated. In the context of the quote, "lust" conveys a sense of uncontrolled and irrational desire, echoing the sentiment that ambition, once ignited, becomes a relentless and consuming force. Just as lust can be insatiable and all-consuming, so too can ambition drive individuals to pursue their goals with an unyielding and sometimes destructive fervor.

The phrase "never quenched" implies that ambition is not easily satisfied or subdued. Instead, it perpetually seeks more, leading individuals to continuously strive for greater heights and accomplishments. This unyielding pursuit of success can be both a driving force for personal growth and a source of inner turmoil, as the quest for achievement becomes an unending cycle.

Moreover, the quote suggests that rather than being tempered by success, ambition becomes "more inflamed and madder by enjoyment." This notion challenges the conventional belief that achieving one's ambitions will bring contentment and satisfaction. Instead, Otway posits that success only serves to intensify ambition, fueling a never-ending cycle of desire and pursuit.

The concept of ambition growing "more inflamed and madder by enjoyment" speaks to the addictive nature of success. As individuals experience the exhilaration and fulfillment of reaching their goals, the hunger for more becomes amplified, driving them to push further and reach for even greater achievements. This escalating desire can lead to a perpetual state of restlessness and dissatisfaction, as each triumph only serves to stoke the flames of ambition even higher.

In the context of personal and professional development, the quote serves as a cautionary reminder of the potential pitfalls of unbridled ambition. While ambition can be a powerful motivator, propelling individuals to surpass their limitations and achieve remarkable feats, it also carries the risk of becoming an all-consuming obsession. The relentless pursuit of success can lead to burnout, strained relationships, and a perpetual sense of inadequacy as individuals constantly seek to outdo their previous accomplishments.

In conclusion, Thomas Otway's quote encapsulates the multifaceted nature of ambition, portraying it as a relentless and insatiable force that only grows more fervent with each triumph. By likening ambition to a lust that is never quenched, Otway offers a thought-provoking perspective on the consuming nature of human desire and the perpetual pursuit of success. This quote serves as a poignant reflection on the complexities of ambition, urging individuals to navigate their aspirations with mindfulness and balance in order to avoid being consumed by their own relentless pursuit of achievement.