“If literature isn’t everything, it’s not worth a single hour of someone’s trouble.”
- June 21, 1905 – April 15, 1980
- Born in France
- Philosopher, novelist, playwright
- He advocated existentialism and had a major influence on 20th century thought through works such as “Being and Nothingness” and “Nausea”
Quote
“If literature isn’t everything, it’s not worth a single hour of someone’s trouble.”
Explanation
In this quote, Sartre emphasizes the importance and centrality of literature in shaping human experience, culture, and meaning. He is suggesting that if literature—whether in the form of books, poetry, or stories—is not of utmost significance, then it loses its value and cannot justify the time and effort spent on it. For Sartre, literature is not merely an entertainment or pastime; it is a vehicle for truth, understanding, and engagement with the world. Literature has the power to reflect the human condition, shape ideologies, and bring awareness to issues of social justice, freedom, and existential reality. If it fails to have that depth or relevance, then, Sartre argues, it is not worth pursuing.
This quote can also be understood in the context of Sartre’s existentialism, which posits that individuals must create their own meaning in a world without inherent purpose. Literature, in Sartre’s view, is a profound tool for human expression—it allows individuals to confront the absurdity of existence and to engage in a dialogue about what it means to live authentically. To him, literature is a way to reflect the essence of human freedom, and if it does not serve to illuminate or redefine the human condition, it risks becoming insignificant.
In modern contexts, this quote might resonate with the ongoing discussions about the role of art and literature in contemporary society. In an age of digital media, where quick entertainment and distraction often dominate, Sartre’s words challenge us to reconsider the value of deeper, more thoughtful forms of literary engagement. Literature, for Sartre, is not simply for amusement; it is a tool for critical thought and a powerful means of addressing human struggles, societal issues, and the search for meaning. His reflection encourages us to ask whether the literature we engage with today is worthy of our time and attention in the same transformative way that it once had the potential to be.
