Ascent Quote by Nikos Kazantzakis
““I tried to establish order over the chaos of my imagination, but this essence, the same that presented itself to me still hazily when I was a child, has always struck me as the very heart of truth. It is our duty to set ourselves an end beyond our individual concerns, beyond our convenient, agreeable habits, higher than our own selves, and disdaining laughter, hunger, even death, to toil night and day to attain that end. No, not to attain it. The self-respecting soul, as soon as he reaches his goal, places it still further away. Not to attain it, but never to halt in the ascent. Only thus does life acquire nobility and oneness.””
About This Quote
Source Book: Zorba the Greek, Nikos Kazantzakis, 1946
The quote urges continual striving beyond personal limits, seeing endless ascent as the essence of a noble life.
In simple terms: Keep pushing beyond goals for true nobility.
Key Takeaway
Never settle; keep climbing.
Themes
self‑transcendence
purpose
spirituality
Mood
reflective
inspirational
Type
philosophical
motivational
When to use this quote
- personal development
- philosophical reflection
- creative work
- spiritual practice
Key Concepts
existentialism
humanism
heroic striving
Questions to Reflect On
- What higher purpose drives you?
- How do you balance ambition with contentment?
A Different Perspective
The endless pursuit may lead to burnout or perpetual dissatisfaction.
