I regard almost all quarrels of princes on the same footing, and I see nothing that marks man's unreason so positively as war. Indeed, what folly to kill one another for interests often imaginary, and always for the pleasure of persons who do not think themselves even obliged to those who sacrifice themselves for them!
Strictly speaking, there is but one real evil: I mean acute pain. All other complaints are so considerably diminished by time that it is plain the grief is owing to our passion, since the sensation of it vanishes when that is over.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote suggests that acute pain is the only true evil, as all other forms of suffering diminish over time, highlighting the impact of our emotions on grief.
Mary Wortley Montagu emphasizes the idea that while many forms of suffering exist, only acute pain qualifies as a genuine evil. Other grievances and complaints tend to lessen over time, indicating that much of our grief is tied to our emotional responses. This perspective invites reflection on how our passions and reactions can amplify our distress, making acute physical pain the most significant and persistent source of suffering.
Themes
In practice
Example use cases
In a discussion about the nature of suffering and how we cope, this quote can illustrate a key point about pain versus emotional distress.
More from Mary Wortley Montagu
All quotes →Whoever will cultivate their own mind will find full employment. Every virtue does not only require great care in the planting, but as much daily solicitude in cherishing as exotic fruits and flowers; the vices and passions (which I am afraid are the natural product of the soil) demand perpetual weeding. Add to this the search after knowledge. . . and the longest life is too short.
There is no remedy so easy as books, which if they do not give cheerfulness, at least restore quiet to the most troubled mind.
My chief study all my life has been to lighten misfortunes and multiply pleasures, as far as human nature can.
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