Skip to content

Absence Quote by Mary Balogh

“Black is the absence of all color. White is the presence of all colors. I suppose life must be one or the other. On the whole, though, I think I would prefer color to its absence. But then black does add depth and texture to color. Perhaps certain shades of gray are necessary to a complete…” quote by Mary Balogh
Download Open image
“Black is the absence of all color. White is the presence of all colors. I suppose life must be one or the other. On the whole, though, I think I would prefer color to its absence. But then black does add depth and texture to color. Perhaps certain shades of gray are necessary to a complete palette. Even unrelieved black. Ah, a deep philosophical question. Is black necessary to life, even a happy life? Could we ever be happy if we did not at least occasionally experience misery?”

Mary Balogh

About This Quote

Source Novel: A Palette of Life, 2015

Black (absence) and white (presence) symbolize life's extremes; color (variety) is preferred, yet darkness adds depth, suggesting both joy and sorrow are needed for a full experience.

In simple terms: Life needs both joy and sorrow for completeness.

Key Takeaway

Embrace both happiness and hardship.

Themes

balance contrast existence

Mood

thoughtful inquisitive

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • creative projects
  • mental health therapy
  • life coaching
  • writing workshops

Key Concepts

philosophy psychology artistic metaphor

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does experiencing sorrow enhance appreciation of joy?
  • Can a life without any hardship be truly fulfilling?
A Different Perspective

Overemphasis on positivity can ignore growth from hardship.

4.9 out of 5 (10 ratings)

More by Mary Balogh

Explore all 298 Mary Balogh quotes

More Absence quotes

Browse all 2,057 Absence quotes