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I feel myself. But it's only the eye with a lash in it…

“I feel myself. But it's only the eye with a lash in it, the swollen finger, the infected tooth that feels itself, is conscious of its own individual being. The healthy eye or finger or tooth doesn't seem to exist. So it's clear, isn't it? Self-consciousness is just a disease.” quote by Yevgeny Zamyatin
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““I feel myself. But it's only the eye with a lash in it, the swollen finger, the infected tooth that feels itself, is conscious of its own individual being. The healthy eye or finger or tooth doesn't seem to exist. So it's clear, isn't it? Self-consciousness is just a disease.””

Yevgeny Zamyatin

About This Quote

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

Self‑consciousness is portrayed as a pathological condition that isolates the individual from the healthy whole.

In simple terms: Self‑awareness can feel like a disease.

Key Takeaway

Balance self‑knowledge with collective harmony.

Themes

self‑consciousness isolation identity

Mood

introspective critical

Type

philosophical psychological

When to use this quote

  • mental health therapy
  • philosophical reflection
  • creative writing
  • examining self‑perception

Key Concepts

psychological disease philosophical critique

Questions to Reflect On

  • When does self‑awareness become beneficial?
  • How can we transform self‑critique into self‑care?
A Different Perspective

Self‑consciousness can also drive growth and creativity.

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