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Toga Quote by Meša Selimović

“Htio sam da ga pitam, zar do slobode da se dođe nasiljem? Zar se protiv zla mora upotrijebiti zlo? I ko će to drugo zlo iskorijeniti? I kako ga zaboraviti? Ali ako to kažem, zamrziće me, prezreće me. Zadržaću se na poeziji. Ali šta da kažem? I ovdje sam sam, i ovdje sam kriv, i ovdje razbijam…” quote by Meša Selimović
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““Htio sam da ga pitam, zar do slobode da se dođe nasiljem? Zar se protiv zla mora upotrijebiti zlo? I ko će to drugo zlo iskorijeniti? I kako ga zaboraviti? Ali ako to kažem, zamrziće me, prezreće me. Zadržaću se na poeziji. Ali šta da kažem? I ovdje sam sam, i ovdje sam kriv, i ovdje razbijam zbijeni red, čvrst kao zid.””

Meša Selimović

About This Quote

Source Novel: Dervish and Death, 1966

The speaker wrestles with moral dilemmas about using violence to achieve freedom and eradicate evil, feeling isolated and judged, turning to poetry for refuge.

In simple terms: Struggling with whether violence can be justified for good, feeling alone, seeking solace in art.

Key Takeaway

Question your means, seek peace through expression.

Themes

morality violence freedom isolation art

Mood

conflicted reflective hopeful

Type

philosophical literary motivational

When to use this quote

  • political protest
  • personal crisis
  • creative writing
  • social activism

Key Concepts

ethical paradox political oppression existential crisis

Questions to Reflect On

  • Can ends ever justify means?
  • How does art help confront moral conflict?
A Different Perspective

Violence may corrupt the cause and alienate supporters.

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