Disillusion Quote by Alan Watts
“The life of Zen begins, therefore, in a disillusion with the pursuit of goals which do not really exist the good without the bad, the gratification of a self which is no more than an idea, and the morrow which never comes.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: The Book of Life, Alan Watts, 1970
Zen teaches that clinging to illusory goals creates suffering; true peace arises from letting go of false expectations.
In simple terms: Let go of false goals for peace.
Release attachment to imagined outcomes.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- career ambition
- personal relationships
- material pursuits
- spiritual practice
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- What goals do you hold that may be illusory?
- How can you balance ambition with acceptance?
Complete detachment may be impractical in daily responsibilities.