The Be-All and End-All: All-Encompassing Ambitions
“be-all and end-all, the” - The ultimate purpose or the most important concern. Originating from the pages of Shakespeare’s Macbeth (Act 1, Scene 6) where the ambitious Macbeth mulls over what it means to be King Duncan’s successor, Macbeth’s contemplation and rationalization are captured in the infamous lines describing the murder of Duncan: “that but this blow [the murder] might be the be-all and the end-all here”. Shakespeare might have brought it into the spotlight, but Eric Partridge noted its transition to a cliché by the 19th century. Though perhaps less frequently uttered now, it still smolders with meaning.
Related Terms & Phrases
- Endgame: The ultimate mission or final stage of an endeavor.
- The whole enchilada: Everything, including all parts; the whole thing.
- End-all: The final point or outcome.
- Final aim: The ultimate goal or objective.
- The crux: The most important or essential part of something.
Synonyms
- Ultimate goal
- Chief aim
- Paramount objective
- Supreme purpose
Antonyms
- Small fries
- Side issue
- Precursor
- Preliminary
Quotes:
“In life, it’s not the be-all and end-all to fail a few times. It’s part of the journey. Failure is the condiment that gives success its flavor.” - Fictional personage, Luna Quixotic
“Many a man’s ultimate goal can’t even lace its boots in the morning without a bit of persistence.” - Wise owl, Anonymous
Proverbs:
“It’s the big picture that carries weight; the small brush strokes are but pieces of it.”
“Only the last frosting on the cake is not a be-all, but a delicious end-all.”
References:
Literature
- Macbeth by William Shakespeare
- It’s Not About The Bike by Lance Armstrong
Books
- The Goals Book: How To Set and Achieve Your Goals by Diane Sawatzki
- The One Thing by Gary Keller and Jay Papasan
Songs
- Dream On by Aerosmith, for when you need that ultimate push.
- Eye of the Tiger by Survivor, capturing the fervor of chasing the paramount.
Poetry
- “Invictus” by William Ernest Henley, a poetic reminder that you are the master of your fate.
Movies
- Rocky: An inspiring tale of grit, determination, and ultimate goals.
- The Pursuit of Happyness: A heartfelt narrative on the sacrifices made in pursuit of paramount ambitions.
Quizzes
As you navigate through the grand voyage of life, ponder on what truly serves as your “be-all and end-all”. 🌟 Carry this knowledge, aspire with a subtle smile, and in the words of Shakespeare, “vault with solitude into the sky of dreams.”
Expanding horizons, departs your dear scribe,
A. Narratedwords
