“How ugly the face of a person is when it is not moving.”
- January 14, 1925 – November 25, 1970
- Born in Japan
- Novelist, playwright, critic, political activist
Japanese
「動いていない人間の顔って、何て醜いんだろう」
English
“How ugly the face of a person is when it is not moving.”
Explanation
In this quote, Mishima expresses a critical view of stillness, particularly when it comes to the human face. He suggests that a static face—one that is not expressing emotion or movement—appears unattractive or unnatural. This comment may reflect his belief in the importance of dynamic expression and the vitality that movement brings to both the body and the spirit. For Mishima, the human face, when it is not in motion, might seem lifeless or empty, lacking the energy that comes with emotion or action. He implies that true beauty in a person is tied to their expression and engagement with the world.
Mishima often explored themes of physicality, expression, and emotion in his works. His view here suggests that the stillness of a face reflects a lack of life or energy, a view that connects to his broader ideals of vitalism and the active expression of self. The face, in his view, is not simply a static object but a canvas for emotional expression and spiritual vitality. Without movement, the essence of a person is hidden, and their true beauty—which Mishima saw as an expression of life force—is diminished. His emphasis on movement in the human form aligns with his belief that action and expression are integral to authentic existence.
In a contemporary context, this quote might also reflect a cultural obsession with self-expression and the importance of emotional authenticity. Today, people are often encouraged to be open and expressive, whether through facial expressions, body language, or social media. Mishima’s comment can be seen as a critique of those who hide behind stillness or lack emotional expression, suggesting that inaction or emotional detachment may make a person seem unappealing or disconnected from the vitality of life. His observation serves as a reminder that true beauty often lies in the movement, expression, and engagement that characterize an individual’s connection to the world around them.
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