Communication Quote by Barry Eisler
““Other times there’s a form of denial at work. Circuitous routes, extensive security checks, an ongoing internal dialogue consisting of If I were trying to get to me, how would I do it? all require a deep acceptance of the notion that there are people out there who have both the motive and the means to cut short your time on earth. This notion is innately uncomfortable for the human psyche, so much so that it produces enormous stress even for soldiers in battle. A lot of guys, the first time they come under close-range fire, they’re shocked. “Why’s he trying to kill me?” they’re asking themselves. “What did I ever do to him?””
About This Quote
Source Novel: “The Last Emperox” by John Scalzi, 2020 (misattributed)
Denial and fear of death drive people to create elaborate defenses, yet confronting mortality is necessary for psychological health.
In simple terms: People hide from death with complex defenses.
Key Takeaway
Face mortality to reduce anxiety.
Themes
fear
denial
security
Mood
tense
analytical
Type
psychological
existential
When to use this quote
- military training
- high‑stress professions
- personal crisis
- ethical decision‑making
Key Concepts
psychology
existential threat
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you balance awareness of danger with functioning?
- What safeguards can prevent paralysis by fear?
A Different Perspective
Denial can also protect mental stability in extreme situations.
