Association Quote by Mikhail Lermontov
“I was lying, but I wanted to rouse him. I have an inborn urge to contradict; my whole life has been a mere chain of sad and futile opposition to the dictates of either heart or reason. The presence of an enthusiast makes me as cold as a midwinter's day, and, I believe, frequent association with a listless phlegmatic would make me an impassioned dreamer.”
About This Quote
Source Poem: “The Dreamer” (part of “A Hero of Our Time”, 1840)
The speaker feels compelled to oppose, feeling that enthusiasm cools him while a phlegmatic companion would ignite his passion, revealing a lifelong pattern of contradictory resistance to both emotion and reason.
In simple terms: He sees himself constantly opposing, believing a calm partner would spark his dreams.
Key Takeaway
Embrace balance between heart and reason instead of perpetual opposition.
Themes
conflict
identity
passion
contradiction
self-awareness
Mood
melancholic
reflective
Type
literary
philosophical
When to use this quote
- personal relationships
- creative endeavors
- decision making
- self-reflection
Key Concepts
existentialism
psychology
romanticism
Questions to Reflect On
- How does constant opposition affect your relationships?
- Can embracing both heart and reason lead to fulfillment?
A Different Perspective
The desire to contradict may hinder collaboration and growth.
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