“Cowardice… is almost always simply a lack of ability to suspend functioning of the imagination.”
- 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
Quote
“Cowardice… is almost always simply a lack of ability to suspend functioning of the imagination.”
Explanation
In this quote, Hemingway suggests that cowardice stems not from an inherent weakness or fear but from an inability to suspend or control the imagination. Specifically, he implies that fear is often driven by exaggerated or imagined worst-case scenarios. When a person is unable to turn off their overactive imagination, they may become paralyzed by what could happen, rather than focusing on what is actually happening. In this sense, cowardice arises when the mind is overwhelmed by possibilities that haven’t occurred, making one unable to take rational action. The quote suggests that bravery is not the absence of fear but the ability to manage one’s thoughts and stay focused on the present, rather than being consumed by imagination and what-ifs.
Hemingway’s own writing often explores the tension between courage and fear, especially in the context of war and personal struggle. His characters, such as Jake Barnes in The Sun Also Rises or Robert Jordan in For Whom the Bell Tolls, face internal and external battles that challenge their ability to remain calm and act bravely under extreme pressure. These characters often must face the realities of their fears but find the courage to push forward despite them. Hemingway’s portrayal of cowardice as a mental block rather than a simple emotional response reflects his belief in the power of the mind to overcome fear.
In today’s context, this quote can be applied to how we often let our fears and doubts take over, especially in situations of uncertainty or stress. Whether it’s dealing with public speaking, career decisions, or personal challenges, the mind often creates scenarios that make situations seem more daunting than they actually are. Hemingway’s insight serves as a reminder that bravery is often about learning to control one’s imagination, remain grounded, and act in the moment rather than becoming paralyzed by potential outcomes. The ability to suspend imagination can help break through the mental barriers that fear erects, allowing for action even in the face of uncertainty.
