Skip to content

Mind Quote by Denis Johnson

“For his part he sensed with despair that he wouldn’t come, no matter how long they kept at it. But this activity made him happy, he could stand here all night and offer pleasure to this other human being, this creature of form and flesh crying like an anvil.” quote by Denis Johnson
Download Open image
““For his part he sensed with despair that he wouldn’t come, no matter how long they kept at it. But this activity made him happy, he could stand here all night and offer pleasure to this other human being, this creature of form and flesh crying like an anvil.””

Denis Johnson

About This Quote

Source Novel: Tree of Smoke by Denis Johnson, 2007

A man finds purpose in providing comfort to another, despite despair, highlighting human connection as a source of joy.

In simple terms: Helping others can bring personal happiness.

Key Takeaway

Seek meaningful connections, even in bleak times.

Themes

despair human connection purpose

Mood

reflective empathetic

Type

literary philosophical

When to use this quote

  • caregiving
  • mental health
  • loneliness
  • spiritual fulfillment

Key Concepts

existentialism compassion

Questions to Reflect On

  • What does service mean to you?
  • How do you find joy in helping?
A Different Perspective

May romanticize suffering as necessary for joy.

2.7 out of 5 (8 ratings)

More by Denis Johnson

Explore all 183 Denis Johnson quotes

More Mind quotes

Browse all 43,542 Mind quotes