“It may not be the body that ages us, but perhaps the heart. The troubles and decline of the heart reflect inwardly, creating ugly wrinkles and blemishes on the body.”
- January 14, 1925 – November 25, 1970
- Born in Japan
- Novelist, playwright, critic, political activist
Japanese
「年をとらせるのは肉体じゃなくって、もしかしたら心かもしれないの。心のわずらいと衰えが、内側から体に反映して、みにくい皺やしみを作ってゆくのかもしれないの。」
English
“It may not be the body that ages us, but perhaps the heart. The troubles and decline of the heart reflect inwardly, creating ugly wrinkles and blemishes on the body.”
Explanation
In this quote, Mishima suggests that the aging process is not solely the result of physical deterioration, but may instead be deeply connected to the state of the heart or emotional well-being. He implies that the psychological toll—the troubles and decline that come from emotional distress or inner turmoil—manifests physically, influencing the appearance of the body in the form of wrinkles and blemishes. Mishima seems to view the body and mind as deeply interconnected, where the emotional health of an individual can have a profound impact on their physical appearance. This perspective challenges the conventional notion of aging as purely a biological process, suggesting that mental and emotional states can also play a critical role in how we experience aging.
Mishima often explored the relationship between mind, body, and society, reflecting on how internal struggles can manifest externally. In this case, he implies that negative emotions such as stress, anxiety, or despair may lead to physical deterioration. He evokes the idea that emotional pain or unresolved issues can contribute to a person’s appearance of aging, symbolizing the internal decay that mirrors outwardly. This understanding reflects Mishima’s broader belief that the soul and body are inextricably linked, and that neglecting one can lead to the deterioration of the other.
In a modern context, Mishima’s words offer a poignant reminder of the impact that mental health has on physical well-being. In today’s fast-paced, often stressful world, many people experience chronic stress or emotional strain that can manifest physically, from premature aging to health issues like skin conditions or muscle tension. Mishima’s reflection on the connection between the heart and the body encourages us to consider the importance of emotional self-care and the need to address mental health in order to maintain overall well-being.
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