Arms Quote by Robert E. Howard
“I have known many gods. He who denies them is as blind as he who trusts them too deeply. I see not beyond death. ... Let me live while I live; let me know the rich juices of red meat and stinging wine on my palate, the hot embrace of white arms, the mad exultation of battle when the blue blades flame and crimson, and I am content. ... I know this: if life is an illusion, then I am no less than an illusion, and being thus, the illusion is real to me. I live, I burn with life, I love, I slay, and am content.”
About This Quote
Source Novel: Conan the Barbarian, Robert E. Howard, 1932
The speaker embraces sensory experience and personal agency, rejecting both blind faith and absolute skepticism, finding meaning in living fully despite life's illusory nature.
In simple terms: Live fully, trust senses, reject extremes.
Key Takeaway
Embrace life’s pleasures and actions.
Themes
existentialism
sensualism
heroism
nihilism
self‑determination
Mood
intense
defiant
reflective
Type
philosophical
literary
motivational
When to use this quote
- combat
- feasting
- adventure
- personal reflection
- philosophical debate
Key Concepts
illusion
agency
sensory fulfillment
mortality
personal myth
Questions to Reflect On
- What senses ground your reality?
- How do you balance pleasure with purpose?
A Different Perspective
Blind faith can limit insight; extreme doubt can paralyze action.
