Skip to content

Calms Quote by Graham Greene

“Opium makes you quick-witted - perhaps only because it calms the nerves and stills the emotions. Nothing, not even death, seems so important.” quote by Graham Greene
Download Open image
““Opium makes you quick-witted - perhaps only because it calms the nerves and stills the emotions. Nothing, not even death, seems so important.””

Graham Greene

About This Quote

Source Novel: The Comedians by Graham Greene, 1966

Opium sharpens wit by calming nerves and emotions, yet even death feels insignificant, highlighting a detached perspective.

In simple terms: Opium calms, making wit appear sharper, but death feels trivial.

Key Takeaway

Recognize how coping mechanisms affect perception of importance.

Themes

perception coping detachment

Mood

thoughtful critical

Type

philosophical literary

When to use this quote

  • stress relief
  • substance use
  • existential reflection
  • creative work

Key Concepts

philosophy psychology

Questions to Reflect On

  • What do you consider truly important?
  • Can calm replace genuine insight?
A Different Perspective

Reliance on substances can distort reality and diminish meaning.

4.9 out of 5 (7 ratings)

More by Graham Greene

Explore all 550 Graham Greene quotes

More Calms quotes

Browse all 45 Calms quotes