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Habits Quote by Haruki Murakami

“What we see before us is just one tiny part of the world. We get into the habit of thinking, 'This is the world,' but that's not true at all. The real world is in a much darker and deeper place than this, and most of it is occupied by jellyfish and things.” quote by Haruki Murakami
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““What we see before us is just one tiny part of the world. We get into the habit of thinking, 'This is the world,' but that's not true at all. The real world is in a much darker and deeper place than this, and most of it is occupied by jellyfish and things.””

Haruki Murakami

About This Quote

Source Novel: “Hard-Boiled Wonderland and the End of the World”, 1985

Our perception captures only a tiny slice of reality; the vast deeper world is mysterious and often unsettling.

In simple terms: We see only a small, surface part of a larger, darker reality.

Key Takeaway

Remember there is much unseen beyond immediate perception.

Themes

perception reality mystery

Mood

thoughtful enigmatic

Type

literary philosophical

When to use this quote

  • travel
  • science
  • personal introspection
  • creative writing

Key Concepts

existentialism philosophy literary metaphor

Questions to Reflect On

  • What aspects of the unseen world inspire you?
  • How do you balance curiosity with fear?
A Different Perspective

The metaphor may over‑emphasize darkness, ignoring beauty in the known world.

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