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Disgust Quote by Patrick Süskind

“…in that moment, as he saw and smelled how irresistible its effect was and how with lightning speed it spread and made captives of the people all around him—in that moment his whole disgust for humankind rose up again within him and completely soured his triumph, so that he felt not only no joy…” quote by Patrick Süskind
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““…in that moment, as he saw and smelled how irresistible its effect was and how with lightning speed it spread and made captives of the people all around him—in that moment his whole disgust for humankind rose up again within him and completely soured his triumph, so that he felt not only no joy, but not even the least bit of satisfaction. What he had always longed for—that other people should love him—became at the moment of his achievement unbearable, because he did not love them himself, he hated them. And suddenly he knew that he had never found gratification in love, but always only in hatred—in hating and in being hated.””

Patrick Süskind

About This Quote

The speaker realizes that his desire for love is hollow; he finds only satisfaction in hatred, which corrupts his triumph.

In simple terms: He discovers his triumph is rooted in hatred, not love.

Key Takeaway

Recognize that seeking love without giving it leads to emptiness.

Themes

self‑awareness human nature emotions

Mood

conflicted melancholic

Type

philosophical reflective

When to use this quote

  • personal crisis
  • achievement celebration
  • relationship failure

Key Concepts

existentialism psychology self‑deception

Questions to Reflect On

  • Do you seek validation from others without offering it?
  • How does hatred shape your sense of success?
A Different Perspective

Happiness cannot be built on hatred; it erodes fulfillment.

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