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Yes, perfection. it rests its full weight upon the core of…

“Yes, perfection. it rests its full weight upon the core of the poor aunt's being, like a corpse sealed inside a glacier-a magnificent glacier made of ice like stainless steel. Only ten thousand years of sunshine could melt such a glacier. But no poor aunt can live for thousand years, of course…” quote by Haruki Murakami
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““Yes, perfection. it rests its full weight upon the core of the poor aunt's being, like a corpse sealed inside a glacier-a magnificent glacier made of ice like stainless steel. Only ten thousand years of sunshine could melt such a glacier. But no poor aunt can live for thousand years, of course, and so she will have to live with her perfection, die with her perfection, and be buried with her perfection. Perfection and the aunt beneath the ground. Ten thousand years goes by. Then, perhaps, the glacier melt in darkness and perfection thrust its way out of the grave to reveal it self on the earth's surface. Everything on earth is completely change by then, but if by any chance the ceremony known as "wedding" still exists, the perfection left behind by the poor aunt might be invited to one, there to eat an entire dinner with impeccable table manners and be called upon to deliver heartfelt words of congratulation. But never mind. These events would not take place until the year 11,980.””

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.

Perfection is an unattainable, oppressive ideal that burdens the individual, persisting beyond life and resurfacing in future rituals.

In simple terms: Perfection is a heavy, lasting burden.

Key Takeaway

Accept imperfection; release unrealistic standards.

Themes

perfection burden legacy time ritual existential

Mood

melancholic reflective thoughtful

Type

philosophical literary existential

When to use this quote

  • personal growth
  • mental health
  • creative writing
  • philosophical debate

Key Concepts

existentialism nihilism psychology

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does chasing perfection affect your daily life?
  • Can letting go of perfection improve relationships?
A Different Perspective

Perfection may inspire unrealistic expectations and prevent authentic living.

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