To put yourself into a situation where a mistake cannot necessarily be recouped, where the life you lose may be your own, clears the head wonderfully. It puts domestic problems back into proportion and adds an element of seriousness to your drab, routine life. Perhaps this is one reason why climbing has become increasingly hard as society has become increasingly, disproportionately, coddling.
Interpretation
Risking significant loss can bring clarity and focus to life.
In this quote, Al Alvarez reflects on how placing oneself in high-stakes situations, such as climbing, can shift perspective and prioritize what truly matters in life. The notion is that by confronting real dangers, mundane issues become less significant, leading to greater mental clarity and a sense of purpose, particularly in a society that tends to shield individuals from serious challenges.
In practice
In a motivational speech addressing young climbers, you could use this quote to emphasize the importance of facing fears.
When neither high purpose nor the categorical imperatives of religion will do, the only argument against suicide is life itself. You pause and attend: the heart beats in your chest; outside, the trees are thick with new leaves, a swallow dips over them, the light moves, people are going about their business.
Discouragement is not from God.
Time is passing. Yet, for the United States of America, there will be no forgetting September the 11th. We will remember every rescuer who died in honor. We will remember every family that lives in grief. We will remember the fire and ash, the last phone calls, the funerals of the children.
I've done truth to power all my life. It's got me into trouble, but who cares?
I think women should band together to get us more respect in all the businesses that we're in because, you know, if we turn 40, we're nothing and nobody. We all should band together and just say we're not gonna go down like that.
I carry with me many scars, but I also carry with me moments that would not have happened if I had not dared to go beyond my limits
There are no pleasures in a fight but some of my fights have been a pleasure to win.
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