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
Each of us must pay for the slightest damage he inflicts upon a universe created for indifference and stagnation, sooner or later, he will regret not having left it intact.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Our actions have consequences, and neglecting responsibility can lead to regret.
This quote by Emile M. Cioran reflects on the impact of individual actions on the world around us. It emphasizes that everyone has a role in preserving the universe's balance, and when we cause harm or fail to act responsibly, we will inevitably face the repercussions of our choices, leading to a sense of regret for not having left things as they were meant to be.
Themes
ConsequencesResponsibilityRegretUniverseIndifference
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech about environmental conservation, one might use this quote to emphasize the importance of protecting nature.
More from Emile M. Cioran
All quotes βWe are afraid of the enormity of the possible.
Emile M. CioranRead
There was a time when time did not yet exist. β¦ 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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