Consternation Quote by David Smith
““What of the times before when no one cared, when we could walk in the parks of our souls, not a fret or a good lay? You see, it is imperative that one absolve themselves from desire, that one lives in tepid consternation. ‘Tepid consternation’ I hear you scream. How can you have consternation when no one cares? Well, truth is, you can. It is that mind masturbation which I have always plagued you with. You know? The fear of not overcoming? Sure you do. Dillinger does. He walks in the parks of his souls where my Lucy and I sit and wait.””
About This Quote
Source Speech: Unknown author, possibly spoken word performance, date unknown
The passage critiques self‑indulgent anxiety and the illusion of striving for validation when no one cares, urging release from desire and mental torment.
In simple terms: It says we create unnecessary fear and desire, and should let go.
Key Takeaway
Release desire, stop mental self‑torture.
Themes
anxiety
desire
self‑awareness
illusion
mindfulness
Mood
reflective
somber
introspective
Type
philosophical
poetic
critical
When to use this quote
- personal reflection
- creative writing
- performance art
- therapy sessions
Key Concepts
existentialism
psychology
self‑critique
Questions to Reflect On
- What desires are you clinging to?
- How does letting go change your inner experience?
A Different Perspective
The abstract language may obscure practical guidance for readers.
![“[John Jarndyce] rubbed his head so constantly that not a single hair upon it ever rested in its right place” quote by Charles Dickens](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/633/charles-dickens-34_consternation_john-jarndyce-rubbed-his-head-so-constan_91584.jpg)
