“In this world, there is a great seal labeled ‘impossible.'”
- January 14, 1925 – November 25, 1970
- Born in Japan
- Novelist, playwright, critic, political activist
Japanese
「この世界には不可能という巨きな封印が貼られている」
English
“In this world, there is a great seal labeled ‘impossible.'”
Explanation
In this quote, Mishima expresses the idea that the world is bound by a limit or restriction, symbolized by the seal of “impossible.” This seal represents the notion that there are certain barriers or constraints that cannot be crossed or overcome, no matter how much effort one exerts. Mishima suggests that these barriers, which are framed as “impossible”, are not merely obstacles but are inherent limits of existence, aspects of life that are insurmountable or inflexible. The use of the word “seal” implies that these limits are inviolable, marked as truths or facts about the world that cannot be easily challenged or undone, and that human beings must come to terms with these fundamental restrictions in their lives.
Mishima’s reflection on impossibility ties into his broader concerns about human limitations and the nature of human existence. He often explored the tension between idealism—the aspiration to transcend the human condition—and the harsh realities of the world, where dreams and ambitions are often crushed by the unyielding nature of reality. Mishima seemed to view the concept of impossibility as an inevitable force that shapes both individual lives and societal structures. The seal of “impossible” is a reminder that aspirations, no matter how grand or noble, are often thwarted by the limits of what is achievable, leading to frustration, disillusionment, and, in some cases, the inevitable acceptance of those limits.
In a modern context, Mishima’s quote speaks to the existential struggles many face when confronted with barriers in life, whether those are personal limitations, societal constraints, or even global challenges. In an era that often promotes the idea that anything is possible with enough effort, Mishima’s words remind us that there are real limitations—physical, emotional, and practical—that must be acknowledged. These limits may be frustrating, but they also offer an opportunity for acceptance and the redefinition of what is truly worth pursuing. Mishima’s insight challenges us to reflect on the nature of human potential, encouraging us to confront and embrace the impossible as a fundamental part of the human experience, rather than an obstacle to be blindly defied.
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