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Desire Quote by Friedrich Nietzsche

“What does our great historical hunger signify, our clutching about us of countless cultures, our consuming desire for knowledge, if not the loss of myth, of a mythic home, the mythic womb?” quote by Friedrich Nietzsche
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““What does our great historical hunger signify, our clutching about us of countless cultures, our consuming desire for knowledge, if not the loss of myth, of a mythic home, the mythic womb?””

Friedrich Nietzsche

About This Quote

Source Book: Thus Spoke Zarathustra, 1883–85

The quote suggests that humanity’s relentless pursuit of knowledge replaces ancient myths, leaving a void where a mythic sense of belonging once existed.

In simple terms: Knowledge replaces myth, creating a feeling of loss.

Key Takeaway

Seek meaning beyond mere facts.

Themes

knowledge myth existence culture longing

Mood

reflective melancholic introspective

Type

philosophical literary existential

When to use this quote

  • education
  • research
  • cultural study
  • personal reflection

Key Concepts

existentialism nihilism modernity

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you fill the void left by lost myths?
  • Can modern narratives become new myths?
A Different Perspective

Myths also provide emotional comfort that facts alone cannot.

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