The premonition of madness is complicated by the fear of lucidity in madness, the fear of the moments of return and reunion... One would welcome chaos if one were not afraid of lights in it.
Emile M. CioranRead
A book has to dig through the wounds, more, it has cause a new one, a book it has to be dangerous.
Interpretation
What this quote means
A meaningful book confronts our deepest pains and challenges us, often leaving a lasting impact.
Emile M. Cioran suggests that a significant book goes beyond mere storytelling; it delves into the complexities of human experience, exposing our vulnerabilities and, at times, inflicting new wounds. This 'dangerous' nature of literature underscores its power to provoke thought and evoke strong emotions, prompting readers to confront uncomfortable truths about themselves and their existence.
Themes
BooksDangerWoundsPhilosophyLiterature
In practice
Example use cases
In a literature class discussing the impact of novels on personal growth.
More from Emile M. Cioran
All quotes βWe are afraid of the enormity of the possible.
Emile M. CioranRead
There was a time when time did not yet exist. β¦ The rejection of birth is nothing but the nostalgia for this time before time.
Emile M. CioranRead
A marvel that has nothing to offer, democracy is at once a nation's paradise and its tomb.
Emile M. CioranRead
Paradise was unendurable, otherwise the first man would have adapted to it; this world is no less so, since here we regret paradise or anticipate another one. What to do? Where to go? Do nothing and go nowhere, easy enough.
Emile M. CioranRead
It is not worth the bother of killing yourself, since you always kill yourself too late.
Emile M. CioranRead
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