Fear Quote by William Boyd
““Do you know that feeling? When you meet someone and you know? The sudden hollowing out of your torso, as if your lungs, heart, viscera have gone and the ribs seem to creak like barrel staves under too much pressure. Glimmerings, intimations of the way I felt now had occurred before with Faye Hobhouse, Dagmar - even Huguette. It is, I think, to do with fear: a fear of impotence - not sexual, but of lacking the power or ability to capture the object of your vital passion. A haunting dread that you will never have the chance again, that the moment has passed you by for ever.””
About This Quote
Source Novel: Any Human Heart by William Boyd, 2002
A visceral fear of losing the chance to pursue a deep passion, feeling emptiness when confronting a potential loss.
In simple terms: Fear of missing a vital opportunity.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and act on passions before they slip away.
Themes
fear
passion
loss
existential
anxiety
Mood
intense
reflective
Type
literary
philosophical
When to use this quote
- romantic relationships
- career decisions
- creative projects
- personal growth
Key Concepts
existential dread
psychological insight
emotional resonance
Questions to Reflect On
- What passion are you postponing?
- How does recognizing fear change your choices?
A Different Perspective
Even if fear is present, action can mitigate regret.
