Existence Quote by Rollo May
“A myth is a way of making sense in a senseless world. Myths are narrative patterns that give significance to our existence. Whether the meaning of existence is only what we put into life by our own individual fortitude, as Sartre would hold, or whether there is a meaning we need to discover, as Kierkegaard would state, the result is the same: myths are our way of finding this meaning and significance.”
About This Quote
Source Book: The Courage to Create, Rollo May, 1975
Myths help humans impose order and purpose on an otherwise chaotic existence.
In simple terms: Myths give meaning to chaos.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and examine the stories you live by.
Themes
meaning
purpose
mythology
existentialism
Mood
reflective
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- Personal crisis
- cultural analysis
- creative work
- spiritual seeking
Key Concepts
Narrative
symbolism
existential meaning
Questions to Reflect On
- What personal myth guides your life?
- How do you test the validity of a myth?
A Different Perspective
Myths can oversimplify complex realities.
