Skip to content

Crime Quote by Marquis de Sade

“Crime is the soul of lust. What would pleasure be if it were not accompanied by crime? It is not the object of debauchery that excites us, rather the idea of evil.” quote by Marquis de Sade
Download Open image
“Crime is the soul of lust. What would pleasure be if it were not accompanied by crime? It is not the object of debauchery that excites us, rather the idea of evil.”

Marquis de Sade

About This Quote

Source Book: The 120 Days of Sodom, 1785

The quote suggests that desire is intertwined with transgression; pleasure gains intensity when paired with forbidden acts.

In simple terms: Pleasure feels stronger when linked to wrongdoing.

Key Takeaway

Recognize how taboo can amplify desire.

Themes

desire morality transgression

Mood

provocative introspective

Type

philosophical literary

When to use this quote

  • artistic expression
  • personal relationships
  • risk assessment

Key Concepts

psychology philosophy ethics

Questions to Reflect On

  • What boundaries define healthy desire?
  • How does society shape our view of pleasure?
A Different Perspective

The link may be romanticized, ignoring harm.

4.2 out of 5 (4 ratings)

More by Marquis de Sade

Explore all 181 Marquis de Sade quotes

More Crime quotes

Browse all 8,359 Crime quotes