Long ago Quote by Tom Robbins
““There are essential and inessential insanities. The latter are solar in character, the former are linked to the moon. Inessential insanities are a brittle amalgamation of ambition, aggression, and pre-adolescent anxiety - garbage that should have been dumped long ago. Essential insanities are those impulses one instinctively senses are virtuous and correct, even though peers may regard them as coo-coo. Inessential insanities get one in trouble with one's self. Essential insanities get one in trouble with others. In fact, it may be essential. Poetry, the best of it, is lunar and is concerned with the essential insanities.-””
About This Quote
Source Novel: Still Life with Woodpeckers, Tom Robbins, 1980
Some irrational thoughts are harmless or even noble, while others are destructive and stem from youthful insecurity.
In simple terms: Some crazy ideas are harmless or noble; others are harmful and childish.
Key Takeaway
Distinguish and nurture constructive imagination.
Themes
creativity
insanity
moon
sun
essential vs inessential
Mood
playful
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- writing
- teaching
- personal growth
- mental health awareness
Key Concepts
philosophy
psychology
artistic expression
Questions to Reflect On
- Which “essential” impulses guide you positively?
- How to manage “inessessential” urges?
A Different Perspective
Labeling ideas as essential can ignore their real impact on others.
