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Complaining Quote by William S. Burroughs

“In deep sadness there is no place for sentimentality. It is as final as the mountains: a fact. There it is. When you realize it you cannot complain.” quote by William S. Burroughs
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“In deep sadness there is no place for sentimentality. It is as final as the mountains: a fact. There it is. When you realize it you cannot complain.”

William S. Burroughs

About This Quote

Source Novel: Naked Lunch, 1959

In deep grief, sentimentality disappears; reality is stark and unchangeable, leaving only acceptance.

In simple terms: Sadness removes sentimentality, leaving harsh reality.

Key Takeaway

Accept facts without emotional denial.

Themes

grief reality acceptance

Mood

somber introspective

Type

literary philosophical

When to use this quote

  • loss
  • terminal illness
  • war trauma
  • personal crisis

Key Concepts

existentialism emotional resilience

Questions to Reflect On

  • Can you find meaning in sorrow?
  • Is denial ever useful?
A Different Perspective

Sentimentality may be a coping tool for some.

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