Life ought to be a struggle of desire toward adventures whose nobility will fertilize the soul.

Rebecca West’s quote, "Life ought to be a struggle of desire toward adventures whose nobility will fertilize the soul," highlights her belief that life should be driven by a passionate pursuit of meaningful adventures. West suggests that desire—the inner yearning for challenge and growth—should propel us toward endeavors that are not only exciting but also noble in nature. These adventures, in turn, serve a deeper purpose: to nourish and enrich the soul. The idea of "fertilizing" the soul suggests that these experiences should be transformative, cultivating qualities like wisdom, compassion, and self-awareness.

The phrase "struggle of desire" implies that life is not meant to be a passive experience but an active pursuit of things that stretch and challenge us. The word "struggle" suggests that such pursuits are not always easy or without conflict, but they are necessary for personal and spiritual growth. By striving for adventures that have depth and purpose, we align ourselves with experiences that contribute to our inner development.

West’s notion of nobility in adventures adds a layer of moral significance to the idea of seeking out challenges. Rather than simply seeking pleasure or external rewards, she advocates for choosing adventures that are worthy of our time and energy—those that elevate us and provide a sense of meaning and integrity. This could mean pursuing artistic, intellectual, or social causes that promote a greater good, rather than shallow or fleeting desires.

In essence, this quote encourages a life led by intention and purposeful pursuit. West is calling for individuals to engage with life in a way that not only excites and challenges them but also leads to a deeper, more fulfilled existence. By striving for experiences that nourish the soul, we can create lives that are rich in both adventure and moral significance.