Skip to content

In spite of their friendship, they were so far apart, the…

“In spite of their friendship, they were so far apart, the bowstring was so taut between them: a seeing man and a blind man, they walked side by side ; the blind man's unawareness of his own blindness was a consolation only to himself.” quote by Herman Hesse
Download Open image
““In spite of their friendship, they were so far apart, the bowstring was so taut between them: a seeing man and a blind man, they walked side by side ; the blind man's unawareness of his own blindness was a consolation only to himself.””

Herman Hesse

About This Quote

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

The distance between two close friends can feel like a taut bowstring, especially when one is unaware of his own limitation, offering only self‑comfort.

In simple terms: Friendship can feel strained when one party lacks self‑awareness.

Key Takeaway

Recognize and bridge hidden gaps in relationships.

Themes

friendship awareness communication

Mood

reflective melancholic

Type

philosophical literary

When to use this quote

  • personal relationships
  • teamwork
  • counseling
  • conflict resolution

Key Concepts

existentialism self‑knowledge psychology

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does self‑awareness change relational dynamics?
  • What steps can reduce the metaphorical tension?
A Different Perspective

If both parties remain unaware, the tension may persist indefinitely.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Herman Hesse

Explore all 24 Herman Hesse quotes

More Blind quotes

Browse all 3,877 Blind quotes