“Even in the valley of the shadow of death, two and two do not make six.”
- September 9, 1828 – November 20, 1910
- Born in Russia
- Writer, philosopher
- Wrote masterpieces such as “War and Peace,” “Anna Karenina,” and “Ivan the Fool,” and had a major impact not only on literature but also on politics and society.
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Quote
“Even in the valley of the shadow of death, two and two do not make six.”
Explanation
In this quote, Leo Tolstoy underscores the absolute nature of truth, no matter how dire or difficult the circumstances may be. By referencing the “valley of the shadow of death,” he evokes a moment of extreme peril or suffering, yet he reminds us that even in the darkest moments, facts and truth remain unchanged. The statement “two and two do not make six” is a way of illustrating that logic and truth are not flexible, and cannot be manipulated by fear, despair, or the emotional turmoil one may experience in the face of death or hardship. Tolstoy is reinforcing the idea that truth is constant, and our perceptions or emotions should not distort the reality of what is true.
In the modern world, this quote serves as a reminder that no matter the pressures or challenges—whether in personal crisis, conflict, or societal upheaval—truth remains objective and unyielding. In times of fear, grief, or confusion, people may be tempted to justify falsehoods or bend the truth to cope with their emotions or circumstances. However, Tolstoy’s words remind us that truth must be upheld, even when it is difficult, and that embracing truth is essential to maintaining integrity, even in the face of the hardest trials.
Tolstoy’s philosophy in this regard was deeply connected to his personal and spiritual beliefs. He rejected the idea of relativism, insisting that moral and logical truths exist beyond human circumstances. His own life and writings reflected this commitment to moral clarity and truth, even in the face of personal struggles or societal pressures. Through his works, Tolstoy illustrates that facing the “valley of the shadow of death”—whether literal or metaphorical—requires a steadfast adherence to what is true, as it is only by holding onto the truth that one can maintain inner peace and clarity amidst chaos.
