How to repulse a demon (an old problem)? The demons…
““How to repulse a demon (an old problem)? The demons, especially if they are demons of language (and what else could they be?) are fought by language. Hence I can hope to exorcise the demonic word which is breathed into my ears (by myself) if I substitute for it (if I have the gifts of language for doing so) another, calmer word (I yield to euphemism). Thus: I imagined I had escaped from the crisis at last, when behold -- favored by a long car trip -- a flood of language sweeps me away, I keep tormenting myself with the thought, desire, regret, and rage of the other; and I add to these wounds the discouragement of having to acknowledge that I am falling back, relapsing; but the French vocabulary is a veritable pharmacopoeia (poison on one side, antidote on the other): no, this is not a relapse, only a last soubresaut, a final convulsion of the previous demon.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Language can both trap and free us; by choosing calmer words we can diminish inner demons, though relapse is possible.
In simple terms: Words can soothe or torment; choose calming language.
Key Takeaway
Use mindful language to manage inner turmoil.
Themes
language
psychology
self‑control
relapse
Mood
introspective
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- therapy sessions
- personal journaling
- stress management
- creative writing
Key Concepts
euphemism
cognitive framing
inner dialogue
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you reframe harmful thoughts?
- What practices support lasting mental peace?
A Different Perspective
Changing words alone may not resolve deep issues; underlying causes remain.