Emotion Quote by Ryū Murakami
““That’s what violence was: emotion leaking out from consciousness into the physical world, linking up with the muscles of the arms and shoulders and diaphragm and, inevitably, the face. Stifle emotion during an act of violence and the face becomes a blank, unreadable mask.””
About This Quote
Source Novel: Almost Transparent Blue, Ryū Murakami, 1976
Violence is the physical expression of unfiltered emotion, turning inner turmoil into bodily force and a mask‑like face.
In simple terms: Violence shows up when feelings spill out uncontrolled.
Recognize and manage emotions before they turn violent.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- conflict resolution
- personal therapy
- stress management
- parenting
- law enforcement
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you notice when emotions are building toward aggression?
- What strategies help you channel strong feelings constructively?
Stifling emotion can create a deceptive calm, hiding true feelings.