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
It is enough for me to hear someone talk sincerely about ideals, about the future, about philosophy, to hear him say “we" with a certain inflection of assurance, to hear him invoke "others" and regard himself as their interpreter - for me to consider him my enemy.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote expresses skepticism towards those who claim to speak for others while discussing high ideals or philosophy.
Cioran's quote reflects a critical perspective on individuals who assume the role of interpreters for others in matters of philosophy or the future. He suggests that when someone uses inclusive language about ideals, coupled with a tone of confidence, it often masks insincerity, leading him to view such individuals as adversaries rather than allies.
Themes
PhilosophyIdealsSincerityCommunicationTrust
In practice
Example use cases
In a debate on social justice, one might reference this quote to challenge the sincerity of advocates acting as representatives of others.
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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