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Annihilation Quote by Shirley Jackson

“I dread that it may be only a longing for annihilation. No person who has seen his own face plain can want to live longer.” quote by Shirley Jackson
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““I dread that it may be only a longing for annihilation. No person who has seen his own face plain can want to live longer.””

Shirley Jackson

About This Quote

Source Short story: “The Haunting of Hill House”, 1959

Facing one's own plain self can lead to a desire for annihilation, making life feel unbearable.

In simple terms: Seeing self plainly can cause despair.

Key Takeaway

Confront inner truth with compassion.

Themes

existential self‑perception despair

Mood

somber introspective

Type

philosophical cautionary

When to use this quote

  • therapy
  • self‑help
  • creative writing

Key Concepts

philosophy psychology

Questions to Reflect On

  • What coping mechanisms help with self‑acceptance?
  • How does confronting self affect purpose?
A Different Perspective

Not everyone experiences such depth.

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