“Can we live without a semblance of submission to life?”
- January 14, 1925 – November 25, 1970
- Born in Japan
- Novelist, playwright, critic, political activist
Japanese
「生への媚態なしにわれわれは生きえぬのだろうか。」
English
“Can we live without a semblance of submission to life?”
Explanation
In this quote, Mishima reflects on the inherent compromise or submission required to fully engage with life. He suggests that to live in this world, there may be an unavoidable concession to the forces of existence—a form of compliance or adaptation to the demands and constraints of life. The word “媚態” (which translates to “semblance of submission” or “flattering attitude”) implies a submissiveness or appeasement that one must adopt, perhaps in the face of life’s challenges, expectations, and complexities. Mishima seems to question whether true independence or freedom from this dynamic is possible, or whether it is simply a necessary act for survival and engagement in the world.
Mishima’s contemplation here touches on the tension between individuality and conformity, a theme central to his works. While he often championed strength and defiance, he also acknowledged the reality that human life requires some level of compromise—whether in accepting societal structures, adapting to personal desires, or managing internal contradictions. This submission to life is not necessarily passive or weak, but rather a strategic adaptation that allows individuals to navigate the complexities of existence. Mishima might be suggesting that this “flattering attitude” is a pragmatic way to maintain vitality in a world that demands constant adjustment to external forces.
In a modern context, Mishima’s quote prompts reflection on the balance between autonomy and conformity in contemporary life. In today’s society, individuals often grapple with the pressure to submit to social expectations, whether in workplaces, relationships, or cultural norms, while striving to maintain personal integrity. The idea of submitting to life without necessarily losing oneself is a nuanced concept in the modern world, where the tension between authenticity and adaptation is ever-present. Mishima’s words urge us to question whether living fully in this world requires such submission or if it is possible to live authentically while resisting societal pressures.
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