Action Quote by Gustave Flaubert
“What stops me from taking myself seriously, even though I am essentially a serious person, is that I find myself extremely ridiculous, not in the sense of the small-scale ridiculousness of slap-stick comedy, but rather in the sense of ridiculousness that seems intrinsic to human life and that manifests itself in the simplest actions and the most extraordinary gestures.”
About This Quote
Source Novel: Sentimental Education, Gustave Flaubert, 1869
The author sees a tension between seriousness and the absurdity inherent in human existence, making it hard to take oneself fully seriously.
In simple terms: Human life mixes seriousness with absurdity, causing self‑doubt.
Key Takeaway
Accept the absurd as part of seriousness.
Themes
self‑reflection
existentialism
humor
Mood
reflective
wry
Type
philosophical
humorous
When to use this quote
- daily interactions
- public speaking
- creative work
- personal relationships
Key Concepts
absurdity
identity
human condition
Questions to Reflect On
- How does recognizing absurdity change your self‑esteem?
- Can humor coexist with seriousness?
A Different Perspective
The quote may overgeneralize personal experience as universal.
