If we were sitting down to interview Rousseau, he might tell us that happiness isn't his main priority—well, at least not in the Charlie Brown sense. Our guy Rousseau is much more interested in finding acceptance for his unconventional views and getting some peace and quiet. Still, Rousseau often wistfully mentions moments of happiness that evaporate almost instantaneously. Mama makes him happy, but he's always aware that their relationship has a time stamp. Publishing a masterpiece makes him happy, until his readers turn on him and kick him out of his home. Even if the phrase is clichéd, happiness is truly fleeting for Rousseau.
Questions About Happiness
- What makes Rousseau happy as a child? Does he derive happiness from the same things as an adult?
- Does Rousseau try to make his loved ones happy, or is he more focused on his own happiness? How can you tell?
- Does Rousseau ever attain lasting happiness? How do you know?
Chew on This
Rousseau's happiest memories are always tied to smaller moments, rather than big life events.
Rousseau encourages his readers to consider their own conditions for happiness.