“There is a certain kind of courage that cannot be acquired without going through the process of indulgence.”
- January 14, 1925 – November 25, 1970
- Born in Japan
- Novelist, playwright, critic, political activist
Japanese
「耽溺という過程を経なければ獲得できない或る種の勇気があるものである。」
English
“There is a certain kind of courage that cannot be acquired without going through the process of indulgence.”
Explanation
In this quote, Mishima reflects on the paradoxical nature of courage. He suggests that there is a type of courage that cannot be developed through conventional means, but rather requires one to first experience indulgence—a state of giving in to one’s desires or passions. This indulgence, while often viewed negatively as a form of excess or decay, is portrayed here as a necessary step in the formation of a particular kind of courage. Mishima implies that through indulgence, whether it be in pleasure, vice, or an intense emotional experience, one gains an understanding of life’s extremes that ultimately forges a deeper, more authentic bravery.
Mishima often explored the tension between pleasure and suffering, especially in his reflections on human nature and the human condition. In this context, the idea of indulgence is not purely about decadence but rather a stepping stone to a more mature and complex understanding of life. By indulging in the darker or more intense aspects of life, one might develop a kind of courage that is rooted in personal experience and an acceptance of the extremes of existence.
In a modern context, Mishima’s insight invites us to think about the relationship between comfort and growth. Often, personal growth and the development of resilience require us to experience discomfort, temptation, or excess, in order to truly understand the boundaries of our own willpower or courage. This idea can be reflected in how individuals, especially in contemporary society, often need to face the extremes—whether through failure, loss, or temptation—before gaining the strength and wisdom to face more serious or lasting challenges. Mishima’s quote challenges us to reconsider the process of growth, acknowledging that sometimes, indulgence or excess can be integral to gaining a greater strength.
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