“Self-respect, which is based on the belief that one should never be deceived by others, builds a wall of ten or twenty layers around oneself.”
- January 14, 1925 – November 25, 1970
- Born in Japan
- Novelist, playwright, critic, political activist
Japanese
「決して人に欺されないことを信条にする自尊心は、十重二十重の垣を身のまわりにめぐらす」
English
“Self-respect, which is based on the belief that one should never be deceived by others, builds a wall of ten or twenty layers around oneself.”
Explanation
In this quote, Mishima explores the nature of self-respect rooted in a deep distrust of others. He suggests that such a form of self-respect is built on the belief that one must never be deceived by others, resulting in the creation of an emotional barrier—a wall that shields the individual from the outside world. This wall, described as being composed of multiple layers, symbolizes the defensive measures one takes to protect their sense of dignity and pride. While this protective mechanism may initially seem like a way to preserve honor, Mishima implies that it ultimately isolates the individual, creating a distance between them and others, and perhaps even between them and the world itself.
Mishima’s insight into self-respect suggests that excessive defensiveness or self-protection can lead to a paradox—the more one builds walls to avoid deception or betrayal, the more one might find themselves cut off from meaningful connections and relationships. In his view, self-respect should not be merely about creating barriers; it should also be about engaging with the world in a way that allows for vulnerability without losing one’s dignity. Mishima’s words reflect a belief that pride and self-worth should not come at the cost of emotional isolation or a constant battle against perceived threats.
In a modern context, this quote speaks to the emotional armor many people construct in response to the fear of betrayal, manipulation, or hurt. Today, many individuals, especially in a world that often seems characterized by mistrust and disconnection, may find themselves adopting similar defensive postures, thinking that self-protection is necessary for survival. However, Mishima’s reflection encourages us to consider the cost of such defensiveness, as it can prevent us from experiencing genuine relationships and connections with others. The wall that shields us from being hurt might also prevent us from feeling truly alive or connected to the world around us.
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