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The Great Malevolence had been squatting in the blackness…

“The Great Malevolence had been squatting in the blackness for a very long time. He was there billions of years before people, or dinosaurs, or small, single-celled organisms that decided one day to become larger, multicelled organisms so they could, at some point in the future, invent literature…” quote by John Connolly
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““The Great Malevolence had been squatting in the blackness for a very long time. He was there billions of years before people, or dinosaurs, or small, single-celled organisms that decided one day to become larger, multicelled organisms so they could, at some point in the future, invent literature, painting, and annoying ring tones for cell phones.””

John Connolly

About This Quote

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

The quote suggests an ancient, pervasive evil that existed long before humanity, implying that darkness is a fundamental part of the universe, predating all life and human creations.

In simple terms: Evil existed before humans and persists.

Key Takeaway

Recognize that some forces are timeless and beyond our control.

Themes

evil existence cosmic history humanity

Mood

thoughtful dark reflective

Type

literary philosophical humorous

When to use this quote

  • philosophical
  • existential
  • dark humor

Key Concepts

primordial darkness anthropic perspective mythic storytelling

Practical Applications

  • literature
  • myth
  • cosmic horror

Questions to Reflect On

  • What does this ancient evil symbolize for you?
  • How does framing darkness as timeless affect our sense of agency?
A Different Perspective

It may oversimplify complex moral realities by personifying evil as a single entity.

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