Skip to content

It was indeed terrible. And to rid myself of the terror I…

“It was indeed terrible. And to rid myself of the terror I wished to kill myself. I experienced terror at what awaited me -- knew that that terror was even worse than the position I was in, but still I could not patiently await the end. However convincing the argument might be that in any case some…” quote by Leo Tolstoy
Download Open image
““It was indeed terrible. And to rid myself of the terror I wished to kill myself. I experienced terror at what awaited me -- knew that that terror was even worse than the position I was in, but still I could not patiently await the end. However convincing the argument might be that in any case some vessel in my heart would give way, or something would burst and all would be over, I could not patiently await that end. The horror of darkness was too great, and I wished to free myself from it as quickly as possible by noose or bullet. that was the feeling which drew me most strongly towards suicide.””

Leo Tolstoy

About This Quote

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

A man tormented by overwhelming dread feels suicide is the only escape from his mental anguish.

In simple terms: Despair leads to suicidal thoughts.

Key Takeaway

Seek help before despair becomes fatal.

Themes

despair suicide mental anguish

Mood

distressed urgent tragic

Type

cautionary psychological

When to use this quote

  • hospitalization
  • therapy
  • support groups
  • crisis hotlines
  • confiding in trusted friends

Key Concepts

existential dread psychological crisis nihilism

Questions to Reflect On

  • What signs indicate a person is slipping into hopelessness?
  • How can loved ones intervene safely?
A Different Perspective

Suicidal ideation can be mitigated with timely intervention and support.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Leo Tolstoy

Explore all 1,754 Leo Tolstoy quotes

More Suicide quotes

Browse all 3,631 Suicide quotes