Crashing waves Quote by Dan Simmons
““We are created for precisely this sort of suffering. In the end, it is all we are, these limpid tide pools of self-consciousness between crashing waves of pain. We are destined and designed to bear our pain with us, hugging it tight to our bellies like the young Spartan thief hiding a wolf cub so it can eat away our insides. What other creature in God's wide domain would carry the memory of you, Fanny, dust these nine hundred years, and allow it to eat away at him even as consumption does the same work with its effortless efficiency? Words assail me. The thought of books makes me ache. Poetry echoes in my mind, and if I had the ability to banish it, I would do so at once.””
About This Quote
Source Novel: Unnamed work, date unknown
The passage reflects on human suffering as inherent, likening consciousness to a tide pool that holds pain, and expresses anguish toward literature and poetry.
In simple terms: Suffering is built into human consciousness, like a tide pool.
Key Takeaway
Accept pain as part of existence.
Themes
suffering
consciousness
existential
Mood
somber
introspective
Type
philosophical
poetic
When to use this quote
- personal turmoil
- creative struggle
- reflection
Key Concepts
philosophy
literary angst
Questions to Reflect On
- How does acknowledging pain change you?
- Can art alleviate or intensify suffering?
A Different Perspective
Pain may be overwhelming and paralyzing.
