“About morals, I know only that what is moral is what you feel good after and what is immoral is what you feel bad after.”
- July 21, 1899 – July 2, 1961
- American
- Novelist, poet, journalist
- Wrote masterpieces such as “The Old Man and the Sea,” “A Farewell to Arms,” and “For Whom the Bell Tolls,” and won the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1954
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Quote
“About morals, I know only that what is moral is what you feel good after and what is immoral is what you feel bad after.”
Explanation
In this quote, Hemingway offers a simple, subjective definition of morality. Rather than adhering to an external, rigid system of moral codes, he suggests that morality is tied to personal feelings of guilt or satisfaction. For Hemingway, the essence of what is moral or immoral comes down to how one’s actions align with their internal compass—if a person feels good or at peace after an action, it can be considered moral; conversely, if the action leaves them feeling bad, it is immoral. This perspective emphasizes personal accountability and self-reflection as the ultimate guides for ethical behavior. Rather than defining morality through religious or societal rules, Hemingway frames it as an intrinsic, emotional response to one’s choices.
Hemingway’s works often explore the complexity of morality and the difficult choices individuals must make, particularly in times of war, love, and personal crisis. His characters frequently face moral dilemmas, where there is no clear right or wrong, but rather a personal reckoning with the consequences of their actions. In works like A Farewell to Arms and For Whom the Bell Tolls, the characters must navigate a world where traditional moral codes seem insufficient in the face of the brutal realities they experience. Hemingway’s quote encapsulates this tension, suggesting that, in the end, an individual’s moral compass is ultimately shaped by how they feel about their actions, rather than by an external standard.
In today’s context, this quote resonates with the modern shift towards individual morality and personal ethics. In a world where traditional systems of morality (such as religion or strict societal rules) are being questioned or redefined, many people look inward to define what is right or wrong based on their own emotions and conscience. Whether in personal relationships, politics, or business, this subjective approach to morality emphasizes personal integrity and the emotional consequences of one’s actions as central to moral decision-making. Hemingway’s insight challenges us to reflect on how we define right and wrong based on our feelings and experiences rather than solely on external judgments or expectations.
