Creeks Quote by Annie Dillard
“It would seem that emotions are the curse, not death-emotions that appear to have developed upon a few freaks as a special curse from Malevolence. All right then. It is our emotions that are amiss. We are freaks, the world is fine, and let us all go have lobotomies to restore us to a natural state. We can leave the library then, go back to the creek lobotomized, and live on its banks as untroubled as any muskrat or reed. You first.”
About This Quote
Source Novel: The Book of Disquiet, 1970
The quote suggests that emotions are a harmful curse imposed by a malevolent force, and that abandoning them through extreme means like lobotomy could restore a natural, peaceful state.
In simple terms: Emotions are portrayed as a curse, and removing them might bring peace.
Key Takeaway
Consider the cost of suppressing emotions.
Themes
philosophy
psychology
human nature
existentialism
critique of modernity
Mood
melancholic
contemplative
critical
Type
literary
philosophical
critical
When to use this quote
- personal crisis
- mental health treatment
- philosophical debate
- artistic expression
Key Concepts
Cognitive dissonance
nihilism
psychological trauma
social alienation
Questions to Reflect On
- Is a life without emotion truly better?
- What are the dangers of seeking extreme solutions to emotional pain?
A Different Perspective
Emotions also provide depth, connection, and meaning, so their removal may lead to loss of humanity.
