Psychology Quote by Haruki Murakami
““Please do, however, allow me to deliver one very personal message. It is something that I always keep in mind while I am writing fiction. I have never gone so far as to write it on a piece of paper and paste it to the wall: Rather, it is carved into the wall of my mind, and it goes something like this: "Between a high, solid wall and an egg that breaks against it, I will always stand on the side of the egg." Yes, no matter how right the wall may be and how wrong the egg, I will stand with the egg. Someone else will have to decide what is right and what is wrong; perhaps time or history will decide. If there were a novelist who, for whatever reason, wrote works standing with the wall, of what value would such works be?””
About This Quote
Source Interview: “The Art of Writing” with Haruki Murakami, 2015
The quote urges writers to side with the vulnerable and unconventional (the egg) rather than the established, rigid structures (the wall). It suggests that true artistic value comes from challenging norms.
In simple terms: Support the underdog, not the status quo.
Key Takeaway
Choose empathy over conformity.
Themes
creativity
empathy
rebellion
artistic integrity
vulnerability
Mood
reflective
inspirational
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
motivational
When to use this quote
- writing workshops
- novel drafting
- editorial decisions
- public speaking
- teaching literature
Key Concepts
existentialism
moral philosophy
literary theory
Questions to Reflect On
- What does “the egg” represent in your own creative work?
- How can you balance respect for tradition with the desire to innovate?
A Different Perspective
Standing with the egg may alienate mainstream audiences and risk commercial failure.
