Skip to content

He disliked his own lies as much as his parents', but…

“He disliked his own lies as much as his parents', but still he continued to lie -- boldly and cunningly. He did this primarily out of need, but also for the pathological pleasure of killing a god.” quote by Ryūnosuke Akutagawa
Download Open image
““He disliked his own lies as much as his parents', but still he continued to lie -- boldly and cunningly. He did this primarily out of need, but also for the pathological pleasure of killing a god.””

Ryūnosuke Akutagawa

About This Quote

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

A character lies both out of necessity and a twisted enjoyment in destroying higher powers, showing how deceit can become a perverse source of pleasure.

In simple terms: He lies out of need and enjoys destroying authority.

Key Takeaway

Beware the seductive lure of harmful deceit.

Themes

deception power psychology morality

Mood

cautious reflective critical

Type

literary philosophical psychological

When to use this quote

  • personal survival
  • political manipulation
  • corporate fraud
  • family dynamics

Key Concepts

existentialism pathology authority truth

Questions to Reflect On

  • What drives you to lie beyond survival?
  • How does power influence your honesty?
A Different Perspective

The quote may romanticize harmful behavior, ignoring its destructive impact.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Ryūnosuke Akutagawa

Explore all 30 Ryūnosuke Akutagawa quotes

More Deceit quotes

Browse all 990 Deceit quotes