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Life Quote by Nikos Kazantzakis

“No, you're not free," he said. "The string you're tied to is perhaps no longer than other people's. That's all. You're on a long piece of string, boss; you come and go, and think you're free, but you never cut the string in two. And when people don't cut that string . . ." "I'll cut it some day!"…” quote by Nikos Kazantzakis
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““No, you're not free," he said. "The string you're tied to is perhaps no longer than other people's. That's all. You're on a long piece of string, boss; you come and go, and think you're free, but you never cut the string in two. And when people don't cut that string . . ." "I'll cut it some day!" I said defiantly, because Zorba's words had touched an open wound in me and hurt. "It's difficult, boss, very difficult. You need a touch of folly to do that; folly, d'you see? You have to risk everything! But you've got such a strong head, it'll always get the better of you. A man's head is like a grocer; it keeps accounts: I've paid so much and earned so much and that means a profit of this much or a loss of that much! The head's a careful little shopkeeper; it never risks all it has, always keeps something in reserve. It never breaks the string. Ah no! It hangs on tight to it, the bastard! If the string slips out of its grasp, the head, poor devil, is lost, finished! But if a man doesn't break the string, tell me, what flavor is left in life? The flavor of camomile, weak camomile tea! Nothing like rum-that makes you see life inside out!””

Nikos Kazantzakis

About This Quote

Freedom is an illusion when the mind clings to safety; true freedom requires reckless risk that shatters self‑imposed limits.

In simple terms: Risking everything breaks mental constraints and reveals life's richer flavors.

Key Takeaway

Risk is essential for authentic freedom.

Themes

Freedom Risk Mindset Existential Self‑discipline

Mood

Defiant Reflective Urgent

Type

Philosophical Literary Motivational

When to use this quote

  • Leaving a secure job to start a venture
  • Ending a toxic relationship
  • Choosing an unconventional lifestyle

Key Concepts

Psychology of safety Existential authenticity

Practical Applications

  • Embrace calculated risk
  • Cultivate flexibility in thinking

Questions to Reflect On

  • What personal strings keep you bound?
  • When might safety be more valuable than freedom?
A Different Perspective

Unbridled risk can lead to ruin; balance with prudence is necessary.

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