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Who can attain to anything great if he does not feel in…

“Who can attain to anything great if he does not feel in himself the force and will to inflict great pain? The ability to suffer is a small matter: in that line, weak women and even slaves often attain masterliness. But not to perish from internal distress and doubt when one inflicts great…” quote by Friedrich Nietzsche
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“Who can attain to anything great if he does not feel in himself the force and will to inflict great pain? The ability to suffer is a small matter: in that line, weak women and even slaves often attain masterliness. But not to perish from internal distress and doubt when one inflicts great suffering and hears the cry of it that is great, that belongs to greatness.”

Friedrich Nietzsche

About This Quote

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

Greatness requires the willingness to endure and inflict pain; suffering is a catalyst for mastery, but internal distress must be overcome to achieve true greatness.

In simple terms: Greatness needs pain and resolve.

Key Takeaway

Embrace hardship, master inner doubts.

Themes

philosophy strength human nature

Mood

intense reflective

Type

philosophical motivational

When to use this quote

  • leadership
  • personal growth
  • overcoming adversity

Key Concepts

will to power suffering mastery

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you balance suffering with inner calm?
  • What does “greatness” truly mean?
A Different Perspective

Pain alone is insufficient without inner peace.

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