Pain and suffering are always inevitable for a large intelligence and a deep heart. The really great men must, I think, have great sadness on earth.
Fyodor DostoevskyRead
Ah, Misha, he has a stormy spirit. His mind is in bondage. He is haunted by a great, unsolved doubt. He is one of those who don't want millions, but an answer to their questions.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote reflects the inner turmoil and existential questions faced by some individuals, prioritizing wisdom over material wealth.
In this quote, Dostoevsky portrays a character deeply troubled by unanswered questions and doubts, suggesting that true fulfillment comes not from wealth or superficial success, but from seeking understanding and clarity in life. The stormy spirit signifies a passionate yet conflicted mind, emphasizing the struggle many face in their quest for meaning.
Themes
ExistentialQuestionsWisdomDoubtUnderstanding
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be shared in a discussion about personal growth and self-discovery.
More from Fyodor Dostoevsky
All quotes →What if, when this fog scatters and flies upward, the whole rotten, slimey city goes with it, rises with the fog and vanishes like smoke.
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Love the animals: God has given them the rudiments of thought and joy untroubled.
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Love the animals, love the plants, love everything. If you love everything, you will perceive the divine mystery in things. Once you perceive it, you will begin to comprehend it better every day. And you will come at last to love the whole world with an all-embracing love.
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But do you understand, I cry to him, do you understand that if you have the guillotine in the forefront, and with such glee, it's for the sole reason that cutting heads off is the easiest thing, and having an idea is difficult!
Fyodor DostoevskyRead
...to return to their 'native soil,' as they say, to the bosom, so to speak, of their mother earth, like frightened children, yearning to fall asleep on the withered bosom of their decrepit mother, and to sleep there for ever, only to escape the horrors that terrify them.
Fyodor DostoevskyRead
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