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Failure Quote by H. P. Lovecraft

“That Crawford Tilinghast should ever have studied science and philosophy was a mistake. These things should be left to the frigid and impersonal investigator for they offer two equally tragic alternatives to the man of feeling and action; despair, if he fail in his quest, and terrors unutterable…” quote by H. P. Lovecraft
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““That Crawford Tilinghast should ever have studied science and philosophy was a mistake. These things should be left to the frigid and impersonal investigator for they offer two equally tragic alternatives to the man of feeling and action; despair, if he fail in his quest, and terrors unutterable and unimaginable if he succeed.””

H. P. Lovecraft

About This Quote

Source Novel: The Call of Cthulhu, 1928

Science and philosophy can alienate feeling, leading to despair or unimaginable terror for those who pursue them.

In simple terms: Pursuing knowledge may bring despair or terror.

Key Takeaway

Balance intellect with emotion.

Themes

philosophy science emotion despair terror

Mood

cautious reflective

Type

philosophical warning

When to use this quote

  • academic research
  • creative pursuits
  • personal growth

Key Concepts

Existentialism humanism risk

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you keep feeling alive while seeking truth?
  • What risks do you accept when confronting unknown knowledge?
A Different Perspective

Overemphasis on rationalism can ignore human experience.

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