“Imagination often arises from dissatisfaction. Or it arises from boredom.”
- January 14, 1925 – November 25, 1970
- Born in Japan
- Novelist, playwright, critic, political activist
Japanese
「想像力というものは、多くは不満から生れるものである。あるいは、退屈から生れるものである。」
English
“Imagination often arises from dissatisfaction. Or it arises from boredom.”
Explanation
In this quote, Mishima reflects on the origins of imagination, suggesting that it is frequently born from a state of dissatisfaction or boredom. He implies that imagination is often a reaction to unfulfilled desires or a lack of stimulation in one’s environment. When a person is dissatisfied with their current situation or feels bored, the mind seeks an outlet, creating new possibilities, ideas, or worlds to fill the void. In this sense, imagination becomes a form of escape, a means of transcending the limitations of reality and creating something more interesting, engaging, or meaningful.
Mishima’s words suggest that imagination is not simply an abstract or idealized faculty, but a pragmatic response to the discomforts of life. Rather than being a lofty or purely creative pursuit, imagination can be an adaptive mechanism for dealing with dissatisfaction and emptiness. This aligns with Mishima’s broader themes of human struggle, where even suffering or unfulfilled desires can be catalysts for growth and creativity. His quote highlights the dual nature of imagination—it is not only a source of inspiration and creation, but also a response to the negative states of being that compel the mind to search for meaning or escape.
In a modern context, Mishima’s insight into imagination as a response to dissatisfaction or boredom remains relevant. In an age where many people experience stress, discontent, or a lack of fulfillment in their daily lives, imagination continues to serve as a way to transform these negative emotions into creative or constructive outlets. Whether through art, literature, innovation, or even fantasy, imagination allows individuals to break free from the mundane or uninteresting aspects of existence. Mishima’s words encourage us to view imagination not just as a gift or luxury, but as a necessary response to the human condition, helping to cope with the discontents of life and offering a path to exploration and discovery.
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