Can you give yourself your own evil and your own good and…
““Can you give yourself your own evil and your own good and hang your own will over yourself as a law? Can you be your own judge and avenger of your law? Terrible it is to be alone with the judge and avenger of one's own law. Thus is a star thrown out into the void and into the icy breath of solitude. Today you are still suffering from the many being one: today your courage and your hopes are still whole. But the time will come when solitude will make you weary, when your pride will double up and your courage gnash its teeth. And you will cry, "I am alone!" The time will come when that which seems high to you will no longer be in sight, and that which seems low will be all-too-near; even what seems sublime to you will frighten you like a ghost And you will cry, "All is false!””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The passage warns that self‑imposed moral authority leads to isolation and inner torment, as judging and avenging oneself creates a lonely, oppressive existence.
In simple terms: Self‑judgment creates loneliness and inner conflict.
Key Takeaway
Avoid making yourself your own judge and avenger.
Themes
solitude
self‑authority
inner conflict
pride
illusion
Mood
reflective
somber
philosophical
Type
existential
cautionary
literary
When to use this quote
- personal decision‑making
- leadership
- ethical dilemmas
- mental health
- spiritual practice
Key Concepts
existentialism
morality
psychology
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you balance personal responsibility with external guidance?
- When does self‑authority become harmful?
A Different Perspective
Self‑judgment can become oppressive and lead to existential dread.