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Hatred is like a long, dark shadow. Not even the person it…

“Hatred is like a long, dark shadow. Not even the person it falls upon knows where it comes from, in most cases. It is like a two-edged sword. When you cut the other person, you cut yourself. The more violently you hack at the other person, the more violently you hack at yourself. It can often be…” quote by Haruki Murakami
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“Hatred is like a long, dark shadow. Not even the person it falls upon knows where it comes from, in most cases. It is like a two-edged sword. When you cut the other person, you cut yourself. The more violently you hack at the other person, the more violently you hack at yourself. It can often be fatal. But it is not easy to dispose of. Please be careful, Mr.Okada. It is very dangerous. Once it has taken root in your heart, hatred is the most difficult think in the world to shake off.”

Haruki Murakami

About This Quote

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

Hatred spreads inward, harming both the target and the holder, making it a self‑destructive force.

In simple terms: Hatred hurts both sides.

Key Takeaway

Avoid nurturing hatred.

Themes

psychology self‑destruction emotions

Mood

cautious reflective

Type

advisory philosophical

When to use this quote

  • personal relationships
  • conflict resolution
  • mental health
  • social media
  • political discourse

Key Concepts

cognitive bias emotional contagion

Questions to Reflect On

  • What triggers your own resentment?
  • How can you transform hatred into compassion?
A Different Perspective

Hatred can be deeply ingrained and hard to eradicate.

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