Meaning: The quote "We do not succeed in changing things according to our desire, but gradually our desire changes" by Marcel Proust encapsulates the complex and often paradoxical nature of human desires and the process of change. Marcel Proust, a French novelist, critic, and essayist, is best known for his monumental work "In Search of Lost Time," in which he delves deeply into the intricacies of human experience, memory, and the passage of time. This quote reflects Proust's profound understanding of the human psyche and the way in which desires and aspirations evolve over time.

At the heart of this quote lies the idea that our desires are not static; they are subject to transformation as we navigate through life. Proust suggests that the act of striving to change external circumstances to align with our desires does not always yield the results we expect. Instead, he proposes that as we engage in this process of endeavoring to shape the world according to our wishes, our desires themselves undergo a metamorphosis. This transformation occurs gradually, almost imperceptibly, as we encounter new experiences, gain insights, and evolve as individuals.

Proust's assertion challenges the conventional notion that individuals possess unwavering, fixed desires. Instead, he posits that our desires are malleable, susceptible to the influence of our experiences, growth, and evolving perspectives. This understanding invites contemplation on the dynamic nature of human desires and the intricate interplay between our inner yearnings and the external environment.

The quote also implies a certain degree of humility in acknowledging the limitations of our ability to shape the world solely in accordance with our desires. It suggests that the process of change is not always linear or predictable, and that the outcomes of our endeavors may not align precisely with our initial aspirations. However, embedded within this realization is the recognition that change is not merely external; it is also a deeply internal and personal process.

Proust's perspective offers a profound insight into the nature of desire and the dynamic relationship between the self and the surrounding world. It invites us to reflect on the ways in which our desires evolve in response to the unfolding of our lives, and the transformative power of our experiences in shaping our innermost longings.

In a broader sense, Proust's quote resonates with the philosophical concept of existentialism, which emphasizes the individual's freedom and responsibility in creating meaning and purpose in a world that is often unpredictable and ambiguous. It suggests that as we engage with the world and strive to bring about change, we are also undergoing an internal process of growth and transformation.

Ultimately, Proust's quote serves as a poignant reminder of the profound complexity of human desires and the intricate dynamics of change. It prompts us to embrace the evolving nature of our aspirations, and to recognize the profound ways in which our desires are shaped by the ebb and flow of life itself.