Skip to content

Afraid Quote by Cornell Woolrich

“It seems so long ago that he was last afraid of anything. Seventeen, was he then? Eighteen? Sometimes he thinks he's missing a lot by being like this - fear gives life a fillip. He wonders how it is he lost it all, and what there is - if anything - ever to bring it back. ("Jane Brown's Body")” quote by Cornell Woolrich
Download Open image
““It seems so long ago that he was last afraid of anything. Seventeen, was he then? Eighteen? Sometimes he thinks he's missing a lot by being like this - fear gives life a fillip. He wonders how it is he lost it all, and what there is - if anything - ever to bring it back. ("Jane Brown's Body")””

Cornell Woolrich

About This Quote

Source Short story: “Jane Brown’s Body”, 1944

A character reflects on lost fear, seeing it as a source of vitality, and wonders how to regain it.

In simple terms: Fear can energize life; its loss feels empty.

Key Takeaway

Embrace healthy fear to stay motivated.

Themes

psychology fear motivation

Mood

introspective thoughtful

Type

literary philosophical

When to use this quote

  • personal growth
  • creative writing
  • therapy sessions
  • risk‑taking activities

Key Concepts

existentialism self‑discovery emotional health

Questions to Reflect On

  • What fears drive you forward?
  • Can you find balance between fear and complacency?
A Different Perspective

Too much fear can be paralyzing.

3.2 out of 5 (3 ratings)

More by Cornell Woolrich

Explore all 152 Cornell Woolrich quotes

More Afraid quotes

Browse all 5,519 Afraid quotes