The quote from "Station Eleven" by Emily St. John Mandel reflects a common belief that work inherently involves struggle, with happiness being a rare occurrence. This perspective suggests that individuals often view their jobs as burdensome tasks rather than opportunities for fulfillment. The idea of happiness, in this context, is reduced to mere distractions that interrupt the monotony of working life.

This mindset indicates a disconnect between personal satisfaction and professional responsibilities. Instead of finding joy in their work, many people accept a cycle of drudgery, hoping for fleeting moments of relief. Mandel's exploration of this theme highlights the importance of redefining our relationship with work and seeking genuine happiness, rather than treating it as an escape from ongoing dissatisfaction.