Battle Quote by Joris-Karl Huysmans
“The belief that man is an irresolute creature pulled this way and that by two forces of equal strength, alternately winning and losing the battle for his soul; the conviction that human life is nothing more than an uncertain struggle between heaven and hell; the faith in two opposed entities, Satan and Christ - all this was bound to engender those internal discords in which the soul, excited by the incessant fighting, stimulated as it were by the constant promises and threats, ends up by giving in and prostitutes itself to whichever of the two combatants has been more obstinate in its pursuit.”
About This Quote
Source Novel: À rebours by Joris‑Karl Huysmans, 1884
The passage describes humanity’s inner conflict between opposing forces, leading the soul to surrender to the more persistent influence.
In simple terms: Human souls are torn between opposing forces, often yielding to the stronger one.
Key Takeaway
Beware of being swayed by dominant but conflicting influences.
Themes
conflict
dualism
spiritual
morality
choice
Mood
thoughtful
serious
Type
literary
philosophical
When to use this quote
- personal decision making
- ethical dilemmas
- spiritual counseling
- creative writing
- debate
Key Concepts
theology
psychology
existentialism
Questions to Reflect On
- What internal conflicts shape your choices?
- How can you balance opposing influences?
A Different Perspective
It may simplify complex motivations to a binary struggle.
