🔄 Go Around in Circles, To
Definition: To keep trying but get absolutely nowhere. The idea behind this timeless expression dates back to when it was first observed that persons who are lost tend to wander in circles, never reaching their desired destination. Famous philosopher Plato (yes, that ancient quizmaster!) used the term figuratively in “Charmides” for an argument that leads nowhere: “You drag me round and round in a circle.”
Synonyms:
- Spinning your wheels
- Going nowhere fast
- Treading water
- Running on a treadmill
- Being on a hamster wheel
Antonyms:
- Making progress
- Moving forward
- Getting ahead
- Plotting a course
- Advancing
Humor-Filled Quotes:
“Some people die at 25 and aren’t buried until 75. They just keep going around in circles.” — Benjamin Franklin (with a dash of humor!)
“Going around in circles is fun when you’re five. Not so much at forty-five.” — Anonymous
Proverbial Wisdom:
“Not all who wander are lost.” — J.R.R. Tolkien (Except, sometimes, they are. And they’re just going in circles.)
Literature and Media Suggestions:
- Books:
- “Waiting for Godot” by Samuel Beckett: Endless waiting is another way of going around in circles.
- “Catch-22” by Joseph Heller: A distressing yet humorous take on circular logic and futile bureaucracy.
- Movies:
- “Groundhog Day” (1993): A man literally goes around in one time loop, reliving the same day over and over.
- “Brazil” (1985): A dark, dystopian take on bureaucratic circles that lead nowhere.
- Songs:
- “Circles” by Post Malone: An anthem for those who feel stuck in life’s circular patterns.
- “On the Road to Nowhere” by Talking Heads: Same idea, more quirky musical vibes.
- Poetry:
- “The Road Not Taken” by Robert Frost: Alright, so this one’s more about diverging roads, but it’s kind of the opposite of circles, isn’t it?
— Inspirational Thought-Provoking Farewell: As you wander through the labyrinth of life, remember that even circles have a center—your navigational compass need just a tweak! May your journey be less about loops and more about meaningful strides forward. 🚶♂️🤔✨
— “Go forth with thoughtful steps,” as I always say. W. T. Wittywords, 2023
