Time Quote by Anna Comnena
““It is extraordinary that nobody nowadays under the stress of great troubles is turned into stone or a bird or a tree or some inanimate object; they used to undergo such metamorphoses in ancient times (or so they say), though whether that is myth or a true story I know not. Maybe it would be better to change one's nature into something that lacks all feeling, rather than be so sensitive to evil. Had that been possible, these calamities would in all probability have turned me to stone.””
About This Quote
Source Historical Chronicle: Alexiad by Anna Comnena, 1148
Ancient myths imagined people turning into objects under stress; modern people might prefer emotional numbness to avoid suffering.
In simple terms: People once imagined turning into stones; now we might choose feeling nothing to avoid pain.
Key Takeaway
Consider healthier ways to cope with suffering.
Themes
suffering
emotional resilience
mythology
Mood
somber
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
reflective
When to use this quote
- war trauma
- personal crisis
- high stress jobs
- mental health treatment
Key Concepts
metamorphosis
stoicism
psychological defense
Questions to Reflect On
- Is emotional numbness a viable coping strategy?
- How can you face evil without losing feeling?
A Different Perspective
Numbness can lead to loss of humanity and deeper isolation.
![“The stream of Time, irresistible, ever moving, carries off and bears away all things that come to birth and plunges them into utter darkness, both deeds of no account and deeds which are mighty and worthy of commemoration; as the playwright [Sophocles] says, it 'brings to light that which was…” quote by Anna Comnena](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/50d/anna-comnena-70382_history_the-stream-of-time-irresistible-ever-mov_1332809.jpg)
