Building walls Quote by Tom Robbins
““If desire causes suffering, it may be because we do not desire wisely, or that we are inexpert at obtaining what we desire. Instead of hiding our heads in a prayer cloth and building walls against temptation, why not get better at fulfilling desire? Salvation is for the feeble, that's what I think. I don't want salvation, I want life, all of life, the miserable as well as the superb. If the gods would tax ecstasy, then I shall pay; however, I shall protest their taxes at each opportunity, and if Woden or Shiva or Buddha or that Christian fellow--what's his name?--cannot respect that, then I'll accept their wrath. At least I will have tasted the banquet that they have spread before me on this rich, round planet, rather than recoiling from it like a toothless bunny. I cannot believe that the most delicious things were placed here merely to test us, to tempt us, to make it the more difficult for us to capture the grand prize: the safety of the void. To fashion of life such a petty game is unworthy of both men and gods.””
About This Quote
Source Novel: Still Life with Woodpecker, 1980
The passage argues that desire, when pursued wisely, enriches life; avoiding temptation is less noble than mastering desire, and one should fully experience life's extremes despite divine challenges.
In simple terms: Master desire, not avoid it; live fully.
Seek to fulfill desires wisely and embrace all experiences.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- personal growth
- spiritual exploration
- creative risk‑taking
- ethical decision making
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- What desires are worth pursuing?
- How do you balance desire with responsibility?
The pursuit of desire may lead to suffering if not guided.