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Afraid Quote by Tony Kushner

“ROY [COHN]:Please. Let me finish. Few people know this and I’m telling you this only because. . . . I’m not afraid of death. What can death bring that I haven’t faced? I’ve lived; life is the worst. (Gently mocking himself) Listen to me, I’m a philosopher. Joe. You must do this. You must must…” quote by Tony Kushner
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““ROY [COHN]:Please. Let me finish. Few people know this and I’m telling you this only because. . . . I’m not afraid of death. What can death bring that I haven’t faced? I’ve lived; life is the worst. (Gently mocking himself) Listen to me, I’m a philosopher. Joe. You must do this. You must must must. Love, that’s a trap. Responsibility; that’s a trap, too. Like a father to a son I tell you this: Life is full of horror; nobody escapes, nobody; save yourself. Whatever pulls on you, whatever needs from you, threatens you. Don’t be afraid; people are so afraid; don’t be afraid to live in the raw wind, naked, alone. . . . Learn at least this: What you are capable of. Let nothing stand in your way.””

Tony Kushner

About This Quote

Source Film: "The Hours", 2002

A raw confession that life is terrifying yet worth confronting; fear of death is less daunting than fear of living fully.

In simple terms: Life is terrifying but confronting it is essential.

Key Takeaway

Face fear, embrace raw existence.

Themes

existential courage responsibility philosophy

Mood

intense reflective

Type

philosophical dramatic

When to use this quote

  • personal crisis
  • artistic creation
  • mental health counseling

Key Concepts

mortality meaning self‑actualization

Questions to Reflect On

  • What does “living in the raw wind” mean to you?
  • How can responsibility be both a trap and a guide?
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