“The most unpleasant form of pretension is to pretend ignorance.”
- January 14, 1925 – November 25, 1970
- Born in Japan
- Novelist, playwright, critic, political activist
Japanese
「衒気のなかでいちばんいやなものが無智を衒うことだ」
English
“The most unpleasant form of pretension is to pretend ignorance.”
Explanation
In this quote, Mishima criticizes the act of pretending or feigning ignorance as the most disagreeable form of pretension. He suggests that, among the various ways people might display artificiality or false appearance—what he refers to as pretension (衒気, “genki”)—the worst is when someone deliberately acts as though they lack knowledge or awareness, especially when they are, in fact, capable of understanding. This kind of pretension is seen as a deceptive and dishonest display, one that not only misrepresents the individual’s true capabilities but also undermines the value of knowledge itself. By feigning ignorance, a person either seeks to appear humble or to avoid responsibility, yet Mishima points out that this act of pretending is fundamentally self-serving and disingenuous.
Mishima’s critique of feigning ignorance reflects his broader disdain for false humility or empty gestures that disguise true character or intent. In his works, he often explored the conflict between authenticity and artifice, and the dangers of masking one’s true self or intentions. For Mishima, true humility and wisdom come not from pretending ignorance, but from recognizing and embracing one’s knowledge and capabilities. Pretending ignorance, therefore, represents a falsehood that diminishes the individual’s integrity, as it creates an illusion of humility or innocence when, in reality, it is a deliberate deception designed to avoid accountability or responsibility.
In a modern context, Mishima’s words encourage reflection on how people today might use pretension to manipulate or manage their public image, especially in situations where knowledge or awareness could lead to personal disadvantage or accountability. Whether in social interactions, professional environments, or public life, individuals might feign ignorance to escape scrutiny or avoid making decisions. Mishima’s perspective challenges us to recognize this form of artifice and to encourage authenticity—where individuals are not afraid to express their knowledge or opinions, but rather engage openly with the world around them. In this way, Mishima emphasizes the importance of genuine self-expression and the rejection of false posturing in favor of a more honest and responsible approach to life.
Would you like to share your impressions or related stories about this quote in the comments section?
