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Forgiveness Quote by William S. Burroughs

“What you call the history of mankind is the history of my escape plan. I don’t want ‘love.’ I don’t want forgiveness. All I want is out of here.” quote by William S. Burroughs
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““What you call the history of mankind is the history of my escape plan. I don’t want ‘love.’ I don’t want forgiveness. All I want is out of here.””

William S. Burroughs

About This Quote

Source Book: Naked Lunch, William S. Burroughs, 1959

The speaker sees personal liberation as a personal, ongoing escape from societal expectations, rejecting love and forgiveness in favor of freedom.

In simple terms: Freedom is pursued by rejecting conventional ties.

Key Takeaway

Prioritize personal autonomy over societal norms.

Themes

freedom rebellion individualism

Mood

defiant reflective

Type

philosophical literary

When to use this quote

  • leaving toxic relationships
  • career change
  • creative pursuits
  • political activism

Key Concepts

existentialism anti‑conformity

Questions to Reflect On

  • What does “escape” mean to you?
  • How can you balance freedom with responsibility?
A Different Perspective

Escaping may isolate and ignore the need for connection.

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