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
If we had the courage to confront the doubts we timidly conceive about ourselves, none of us would utter an 'I' without shame.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote emphasizes the importance of confronting our self-doubts to overcome shame and live authentically.
Emile M. Cioran suggests that many of our doubts about ourselves stem from a lack of courage to face them directly. If we were bold enough to address these doubts, it would lead to a life where expressing our individuality and self-worth wouldn't be overshadowed by feelings of shame or insecurity.
Themes
CourageSelf-DoubtAuthenticityShameIndividuality
In practice
Example use cases
During a motivational speech about overcoming personal challenges.
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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