I take a simple view of life. It is keep your eyes open and get on with it.

In this quote, Laurence Sterne advocates for a straightforward, no-nonsense approach to life. By saying, "I take a simple view of life. It is keep your eyes open and get on with it," he encourages us to stay aware and present in the moment, without getting bogged down by unnecessary complications or overthinking. The message is that clarity and action are key—rather than getting distracted by doubts or distractions, one should focus on what’s in front of them and keep moving forward. The simplicity of this approach underscores the importance of practicality in life.

Sterne’s view suggests that life does not require grand schemes or complex theories. It’s about maintaining awareness of the world around us and making the most of the opportunities that come our way. The idea of "keep your eyes open" implies the need for alertness and perception, so that one can react to the realities of life as they unfold. At the same time, "get on with it" is a call to action—to continue pushing forward, regardless of obstacles, and to take life as it comes, with resolve and purpose.

The quote reflects a philosophical stance that values simplicity over confusion and emphasizes pragmatism over theoretical idealism. It’s a reminder that life can often be more straightforward than we make it, and that success and peace come from acceptance and directness. Rather than getting lost in analysis or worry, Sterne suggests that the key to navigating life is to stay focused, maintain a clear perspective, and simply keep moving forward, one step at a time.

The origin of this quote comes from Laurence Sterne, an English writer best known for his novel Tristram Shandy. Sterne’s works are often characterized by wit, humor, and a keen observation of human nature. His simple yet profound view of life is reflected in this quote, which encourages a no-frills, action-oriented approach to existence. This perspective resonates with his broader literary style, which often blends light-heartedness with deeper philosophical insights about human experience.