Anxious Quote by Joseph Conrad
“The mysteries of a universe made of drops of fire and clods of mud do not concern us in the least. The fate of humanity condemned ultimately to perish from cold is not worth troubling about. If you take it to heart it becomes an unendurable tragedy. If you believe in improvement you must weep, for the attained perfection must end in cold, darkness and silence. In a dispassionate view the ardour for reform, improvement for virtue, and knowledge, and even for beauty is only a vain sticking up for appearances as though one were anxious about the cut of one's clothes in a community of blind men.”
About This Quote
Source Novel: Nostromo, Joseph Conrad, 1904
The quote reflects a nihilistic view that humanity's ultimate fate is indifferent and that striving for improvement is futile in the face of inevitable cold death.
In simple terms: Humanity's end is cold; effort seems pointless.
Key Takeaway
Accept impermanence, focus on present meaning.
Themes
nihilism
existentialism
human condition
impermanence
meaninglessness
Mood
melancholic
reflective
somber
Type
philosophical
literary
existential
When to use this quote
- philosophical contemplation
- literary analysis
- personal reflection
Key Concepts
absurdism
existential dread
cosmic indifference
Questions to Reflect On
- What gives you purpose despite inevitable end?
- Can small acts of kindness counteract cosmic indifference?
A Different Perspective
The argument may overlook human resilience and the value of temporary joys.
