Skip to content

The life of Zen begins, therefore, in a disillusion with…

“The life of Zen begins, therefore, in a disillusion with the pursuit of goals which do not really exist the good without the bad, the gratification of a self which is no more than an idea, and the morrow which never comes.” quote by Alan Watts
Download Open image
“The life of Zen begins, therefore, in a disillusion with the pursuit of goals which do not really exist the good without the bad, the gratification of a self which is no more than an idea, and the morrow which never comes.”

Alan Watts

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Zen teaches that clinging to illusory goals creates suffering; true peace arises from letting go of false expectations.

In simple terms: Let go of false goals for peace.

Key Takeaway

Release attachment to imagined outcomes.

Themes

zen detachment mindfulness

Mood

calm reflective

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • career ambition
  • personal relationships
  • material pursuits
  • spiritual practice

Key Concepts

philosophy spirituality

Questions to Reflect On

  • What goals do you hold that may be illusory?
  • How can you balance ambition with acceptance?
A Different Perspective

Complete detachment may be impractical in daily responsibilities.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Alan Watts

Explore all 460 Alan Watts quotes

More Disillusion quotes

Browse all 79 Disillusion quotes