Skip to content

Hurt Quote by David Foster Wallace

“I don't want to hurt myself. I want to stop hurting.” quote by David Foster Wallace
Download Open image
“I don't want to hurt myself. I want to stop hurting.”

David Foster Wallace

About This Quote

Source Essay: Infinite Jest, 1996

The speaker expresses a desire to end self-inflicted pain and cease causing harm to others.

In simple terms: Wants to stop hurting self and others.

Key Takeaway

Seek help and self‑compassion.

Themes

self‑harm recovery mental health

Mood

sad reflective

Type

personal therapeutic

When to use this quote

  • therapy
  • support groups
  • mindfulness practice
  • confiding in trusted friend

Key Concepts

psychology self‑compassion healing

Questions to Reflect On

  • What underlying feelings drive this pain?
  • How can you safely channel distress?
A Different Perspective

Healing may require confronting deep trauma and may not be immediate.

4.7 out of 5 (7 ratings)

More by David Foster Wallace

Explore all 999 David Foster Wallace quotes

More Hurt quotes

Browse all 13,577 Hurt quotes