Demons Language Quote by Roland Barthes
““How to repulse a demon (an old problem)? The demons, especially if they are demons of language (and what else could they be?) are fought by language. Hence I can hope to exorcise the demonic word which is breathed into my ears (by myself) if I substitute for it (if I have the gifts of language for doing so) another, calmer word (I yield to euphemism). Thus: I imagined I had escaped from the crisis at last, when behold -- favored by a long car trip -- a flood of language sweeps me away, I keep tormenting myself with the thought, desire, regret, and rage of the other; and I add to these wounds the discouragement of having to acknowledge that I am falling back, relapsing; but the French vocabulary is a veritable pharmacopoeia (poison on one side, antidote on the other): no, this is not a relapse, only a last soubresaut, a final convulsion of the previous demon.””
About This Quote
Source Essay: “The Death of the Author”, 1977
Language can both trap and free us; by choosing calmer words we can diminish inner demons, though relapse is possible.
In simple terms: Words can soothe or torment; choose calming language.
Key Takeaway
Use mindful language to manage inner turmoil.
Themes
language
psychology
self‑control
relapse
Mood
introspective
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- therapy sessions
- personal journaling
- stress management
- creative writing
Key Concepts
euphemism
cognitive framing
inner dialogue
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you reframe harmful thoughts?
- What practices support lasting mental peace?
A Different Perspective
Changing words alone may not resolve deep issues; underlying causes remain.
