“Listen to the cry of a woman in labor at the hour of giving birth – look at the dying man’s struggle at his last extremity, and then tell me whether something that begins and ends thus could be intended for enjoyment.”
- May 5, 1813 – November 11, 1855
- Danish
- Philosopher, Theologian, Poet, Father of Existentialism
table of contents
Quote
“Listen to the cry of a woman in labor at the hour of giving birth – look at the dying man’s struggle at his last extremity, and then tell me whether something that begins and ends thus could be intended for enjoyment.”
Explanation
This quote presents a stark and visceral reflection on the suffering that bookends human life, challenging the notion that life is meant to be primarily about pleasure or enjoyment. By invoking the agonies of birth and death, Kierkegaard confronts us with the inescapable reality of pain and struggle. He implies that if life begins and ends in such profound suffering, it cannot be understood merely as a pursuit of happiness—it must point to something deeper, more serious, and more spiritually significant.
Kierkegaard often rejected shallow or hedonistic views of life, especially those that ignored suffering or sought to mask it with distraction. For him, life was not an amusement but a profound existential challenge, marked by anxiety, choice, and the need for faith. The quote reflects his belief that suffering is not accidental, but integral to human existence—a condition that calls individuals to self-awareness, responsibility, and ultimately a relationship with the eternal.
In a modern context where pleasure, success, and comfort are often equated with meaning, this quote serves as a powerful counterpoint. Kierkegaard does not deny moments of joy, but he insists that true life involves facing its harshest realities with honesty. Only by confronting birth and death—not avoiding them—can one grasp the weight and wonder of being alive, and perhaps find a meaning that transcends both pain and pleasure.
Would you like to share your impressions or related stories about this quote in the comments section?
