“The basis of optimism is sheer terror.”
- October 16, 1854 – November 30, 1900
- Irish
- Author, poet, playwright
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Quote
“The basis of optimism is sheer terror.”
Explanation
In this quote, Oscar Wilde presents a paradoxical view on optimism. He suggests that the underlying reason some people choose to be optimistic is not because of a genuine belief in a positive outcome, but because they are driven by a fear of the alternative—the “sheer terror” of pessimism or facing the reality of life’s difficulties. In other words, optimism may be a defense mechanism, a way to protect oneself from the overwhelming fear or despair that can come from confronting the harshness of the world. Rather than an innate or rational belief that everything will turn out well, optimism may arise from the necessity of choosing hope in the face of fear, uncertainty, and the potential for disappointment.
Wilde’s quote is a reflection on human psychology, highlighting the way people often cling to optimism as a way to avoid the emotional burden of realism or negativity. This view also reflects Wilde’s broader skepticism of idealism, suggesting that many of our choices and attitudes are not entirely based on rational thought, but are driven by fear, self-protection, or illusion.
In modern contexts, this quote speaks to the tension between hope and fear in human behavior. It suggests that our optimism may not always be as pure or idealistic as it seems, and that sometimes it arises as a coping strategy in response to life’s challenges. Wilde’s words encourage us to recognize that while optimism can be a positive force, it might also be rooted in avoidance, and that understanding the motivations behind our outlook on life can lead to a more nuanced and authentic understanding of ourselves.
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