Existence Quote by Fyodor Dostoevsky - The Brothers Karamazov
““Oh, with my pathetic, earthly, Euclidean mind, I know only that there is suffering, that none are to blame, that all things follow simply and directly from one another, that everything flows and finds its level - but that is all just Euclidean gibberish, of course I know that, and of course I cannot consent to live by it! What do I care that none are to blame and that I know it - I need retribution, otherwise I will destroy myself. And retribution not somewhere and sometime in infinity, but here and now, on earth, so that I see it myself. I have believed, and I want to see for myself, and if I am dead by that time, let them resurrect me, because it will be too unfair if it all takes place without me. Is it possible that I've suffered so that I, together with my evil deeds and sufferings, should be manure for someone's future harmony? I want to see with my own eyes the hind lie down with the lion, and the murdered man rise up and embrace his murderer. I want to be there when everyone suddenly finds out what it was all for.””
About This Quote
The narrator wrestles with suffering, blame, and a desire for retribution, questioning existence and meaning.
In simple terms: Struggles with pain, guilt, and the need for justice.
Key Takeaway
Explore forgiveness and purpose beyond vengeance.
Themes
existence
ufferinguffering
justice
redemption
philosophy
psychology
Mood
tormented
reflective
Type
literary
philosophical
When to use this quote
- spiritual quest
- psychological analysis
- literary study
Key Concepts
existential crisis
moral conflict
search for meaning
Questions to Reflect On
- Can you find peace without revenge?
- What gives life meaning amid pain?
A Different Perspective
Vengeful impulses may perpetuate suffering.
