Skip to content

Illness Quote by Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn

“Should a man, to preserve his life, pay everything that gives life colour, scent and excitement? Can one accept a life of digestion, respiration, muscular and brain activity - and nothing more? Become a walking blueprint? Is this not an exorbitant price? Is it not mockery?” quote by Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn
Download Open image
““Should a man, to preserve his life, pay everything that gives life colour, scent and excitement? Can one accept a life of digestion, respiration, muscular and brain activity - and nothing more? Become a walking blueprint? Is this not an exorbitant price? Is it not mockery?””

Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn

About This Quote

Source Novel: The Gulag Archipelago, 1973

Questioning whether a life reduced to mere survival is worth the loss of joy and meaning.

In simple terms: Life should be more than basic survival.

Key Takeaway

Seek meaning beyond mere existence.

Themes

existentialism meaning humanity

Mood

thoughtful serious

Type

philosophical reflective

When to use this quote

  • career choices
  • health decisions
  • creative pursuits
  • spiritual practice

Key Concepts

philosophy ethics purpose

Questions to Reflect On

  • What brings colour to your life?
  • Can you balance survival with joy?
A Different Perspective

Focusing solely on survival can lead to emptiness.

3.6 out of 5 (3 ratings)

More by Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn

Explore all 412 Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn quotes

More Illness quotes

Browse all 2,209 Illness quotes