It can be a source of both joy and sorrow from "summary" of The Psychology of the Imagination by Jean-Paul Sartre
The imagination is a powerful faculty of the mind that has the capacity to evoke a wide range of emotions in individuals. It is a creative force that can bring about feelings of joy and happiness, as well as sadness and melancholy. The ability to imagine allows us to escape the confines of reality and explore new possibilities and experiences. It can be a source of inspiration and delight, filling our lives with wonder and excitement. On the other hand, the imagination can also be a source of pain and sorrow. When we imagine scenarios that are distressing or upsetting, it can lead to feelings of anxiety, fear, and despair. The mind has the ability to conjure up images of loss, failure, and disappointment, causing us to dwell on negative thoughts and emotions. The power of imagination lies in its ability to evoke intense and sometimes conflicting feelings within us. The dual nature of the imagination can be seen in the way it influences our perceptions and attitudes towards the world around us. By envisioning positive outcomes and possibilities, we can feel motivated and hopeful about the future. Conversely, dwelling on negative thoughts and scenarios can lead to feelings of despair and hopelessness. The imagination has the power to shape our reality and affect how we interpret and respond to the events in our lives.- The imagination is a double-edged sword that can bring both joy and sorrow to our lives. It is a complex and multifaceted aspect of human consciousness that plays a crucial role in shaping our emotional experiences and responses. By understanding the impact of our imagination on our thoughts and feelings, we can learn to harness its creative potential and use it to enrich our lives.