“At least while we are alive, we stand firmly on the ground with two feet.”
- January 14, 1925 – November 25, 1970
- Born in Japan
- Novelist, playwright, critic, political activist
Japanese
「生きてるあいだだけでも、二本足でしっかり地面を踏んでいるもんだ」
English
“At least while we are alive, we stand firmly on the ground with two feet.”
Explanation
In this quote, Mishima reflects on the impermanence of life and the struggle for stability in a world marked by uncertainty and transience. He emphasizes the importance of the present moment, suggesting that while alive, human beings can find meaning and strength by standing firmly on the ground, using their two feet as a metaphor for self-reliance and stability. This notion highlights the resilience of the human spirit despite the inevitable challenges and inevitable eventual loss that comes with life. The phrase reflects Mishima’s belief in the value of confronting life’s challenges head-on, even in the face of ephemeral existence.
Mishima often explored the themes of existential struggle and human dignity, and this quote embodies his philosophical stance that despite life’s fleeting nature, humans must anchor themselves in the present, grounding their being in reality rather than dwelling on the uncertainties of the future or past. The act of standing firmly on the ground represents a commitment to live fully, embracing one’s human condition with strength and conviction, even as the world around may seem unstable.
In modern terms, this quote resonates with the idea that people today often face uncertainty—whether through personal struggles, societal changes, or global challenges—and yet, there is value in grounding oneself in the present. It encourages individuals to find stability in the midst of chaos and to focus on what can be controlled in the here and now, even as the future remains uncertain. The idea of standing firm with two feet serves as a metaphor for resilience and self-determination, urging people to find a sense of purpose and strength in the fleeting nature of life.
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