Skip to content

It must be that there is something naturally absurd in a…

“It must be that there is something naturally absurd in a sincere emotion, though why there should be I cannot imagine, unless it is that man, the ephemeral inhabitant of an insignificant planet, with all his pain and all his striving is but a jest in an eternal mind.” quote by W. Somerset Maugham
Download Open image
“It must be that there is something naturally absurd in a sincere emotion, though why there should be I cannot imagine, unless it is that man, the ephemeral inhabitant of an insignificant planet, with all his pain and all his striving is but a jest in an eternal mind.”

W. Somerset Maugham

About This Quote

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

Human emotions feel absurd against the vast, indifferent cosmos, highlighting our fleeting existence and the paradox of seeking meaning.

In simple terms: Emotions seem absurd in a huge universe.

Key Takeaway

Accept life's absurdity and cherish moments.

Themes

existentialism humanity meaning absurdity

Mood

contemplative melancholic

Type

philosophical literary

When to use this quote

  • personal reflection
  • philosophical discussion
  • artistic creation

Key Concepts

cosmic insignificance ephemeral self search for purpose

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you find purpose amid cosmic insignificance?
  • Can absurdity coexist with sincere feeling?
A Different Perspective

Life's meaning may be beyond human grasp.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by W. Somerset Maugham

Explore all 840 W. Somerset Maugham quotes

More Absurd quotes

Browse all 1,644 Absurd quotes