Bitter experience Quote by Henry Miller
““This is all a figurative way of speaking about what is unmentionable. What is unmentionable is pure fuck and pure cunt; it must be mentioned only in de luxe editions, otherwise the world will fall apart. What holds the world together, as I have learned from bitter experience, is sexual intercourse. But fuck, the real thing, cunt, the real thing, seems to contain some unidentified element which is far more dangerous than nitroglycerine.””
About This Quote
Source Novel: Tropic of Cancer, 1934
The author argues that sexual intimacy is the fundamental force holding society together, while taboo sexual language conceals a potent, dangerous power.
In simple terms: Sex is the core glue of society; taboo language hides a volatile force.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and discuss the power of sexuality openly.
Themes
sex
taboo
power
society
danger
Mood
provocative
reflective
intense
Type
philosophical
controversial
When to use this quote
- relationships
- artistic expression
- social discourse
- personal introspection
Key Concepts
existentialism
psychology
cultural critique
Questions to Reflect On
- How does taboo language affect our perception of sexuality?
- Can intimacy be a unifying force without explicit sexual reference?
A Different Perspective
The claim may overgeneralize and ignore non‑sexual bonds that also unify people.
