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The debate was wearing me out. Once you've posed that…

“The debate was wearing me out. Once you've posed that question, it won't go away. I think many people kill themselves simply to stop the debate about whether they will or they won't. Anything I thought or did was immediately drawn into the debate. Made a stupid remark--why not kill myself? Missed…” quote by Susanna Kaysen
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“The debate was wearing me out. Once you've posed that question, it won't go away. I think many people kill themselves simply to stop the debate about whether they will or they won't. Anything I thought or did was immediately drawn into the debate. Made a stupid remark--why not kill myself? Missed the bus--better put an end to it all. Even the good got in there. I liked that movie--maybe I shouldn't kill myself.”

Susanna Kaysen

About This Quote

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

Persistent inner conflict can drive self‑destructive thoughts.

In simple terms: Debates can fuel despair.

Key Takeaway

Seek support and break the cycle.

Themes

mental health self‑harm debate despair

Mood

somber hopeful

Type

psychological personal

When to use this quote

  • therapy sessions
  • support groups
  • personal journaling

Key Concepts

psychology existentialism

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you cope with overwhelming thoughts?
  • What help can you reach out for?
A Different Perspective

Debates may not resolve underlying issues.

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