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On the meridian of time there is no injustice: there is…

“On the meridian of time there is no injustice: there is only the poetry of motion creating the illusion of truth and drama. If at any moment anywhere one comes face to face with the absolute, that great sympathy which makes men like Gautama and Jesus seem divine freezes away; the monstrous thing…” quote by Henry Miller
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““On the meridian of time there is no injustice: there is only the poetry of motion creating the illusion of truth and drama. If at any moment anywhere one comes face to face with the absolute, that great sympathy which makes men like Gautama and Jesus seem divine freezes away; the monstrous thing is not that men have created roses out of this dung heap, but that, for some reason or other, they should want roses. For some reason or other man looks for the miracle, and to accomplish it he will wade through blood. He will debauch himself with ideas, he will reduce himself to a shadow if for only one second of his life he can close his eyes to the hideousness of reality. Everything is endured―disgrace, humiliation, poverty, war, crime, ennui―in the belief that overnight something will occur, a miracle, which will render life tolerable.””

Henry Miller

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 reflects on time's impartiality, the poetic nature of motion creating false truths, and humanity's yearning for miracles despite suffering, leading to self-deception.

In simple terms: People seek miracles, ignoring harsh realities.

Key Takeaway

Recognize the illusion of seeking miracles in suffering.

Themes

existential spiritual human nature

Mood

melancholic introspective

Type

philosophical poetic

When to use this quote

  • philosophy
  • religion
  • personal crisis
  • artistic expression

Key Concepts

illusion miracle suffering self-deception

Questions to Reflect On

  • What drives the desire for miracles?
  • How does self-deception affect coping with adversity?
A Different Perspective

Miracles may not resolve underlying hardships.

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