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 civilization begins to decline the moment Life becomes its sole obsession.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote suggests that an overemphasis on life leads to a decline in civilization.
Emile M. Cioran's quote reflects on the idea that when society becomes solely focused on the pursuit of life and survival, it neglects other important aspects that contribute to its richness and depth, such as culture, relationships, and spirituality. The obsession with mere existence can result in a decline of values, creativity, and the overall advancement of civilization, as it overlooks the significance of experiences and deeper purposes beyond just living.
Themes
CivilizationDeclineObsessionLifeValues
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech about cultural values, one might use this quote to emphasize the importance of a balanced life.
More from Emile M. Cioran
All quotes →We are afraid of the enormity of the possible.
Emile M. CioranRead
There was a time when time did not yet exist. … 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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