Beautiful life Quote by Hermann Hesse
““You see, King, we have a legend - I used to believe that it was all fairy-tale rubbish and empty smoke. It is a legend about how such things as war and death and despair were common in our country at one time. These terrible words, which we have long since stopped using in our language, can be read in collections of our old tales, and they sound awful to us and even a little ridiculous. Today I've learned that these tales are all true... But now tell me, don't you have in your soul a sort of intimation that you're not doing the right thing? Don't you have a yearning for bright, serene gods, for sensible and cheerful leaders and mentors? Don't you ever dream in your sleep about another, more beautiful life where nobody is envious of others, where reason and order prevails, where people treat other people only with cheerfulness and considerations?””
About This Quote
Source Novel: Demian, Hermann Hesse, 1919
The speaker reflects on how myths once dismissed as nonsense reveal deep truths about human longing for ideal leadership and a harmonious society.
In simple terms: Old stories show our desire for better leaders and a peaceful world.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and pursue the values you truly cherish.
Themes
longing
idealism
societal critique
myth
self‑reflection
Mood
contemplative
hopeful
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- personal development
- leadership training
- community building
- cultural analysis
Key Concepts
existentialism
human nature
social ideals
Questions to Reflect On
- What values guide your actions?
- How can you balance idealism with reality?
A Different Perspective
Ideal visions may ignore practical complexities and existing constraints.
![“[comrades] are ashes, entrails, dung, stove smoke, clay, and they’ll all return to clay. They’re full of dirt, candle oil, droppings, dust. You, O Book, my pure, shining precious, my golden singing promise, my dream, a distant call— O tender specter, happy chance, Again I heed the ancient lore…” quote by Tatyana Tolstaya](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/437/tatyana-tolstaya-25610_books_comrades-are-ashes-entrails-dung-stove-s_2528700.jpg)
