“A man’s vanity is to make it appear as though he has no vanity.”
- January 14, 1925 – November 25, 1970
- Born in Japan
- Novelist, playwright, critic, political activist
Japanese
「男の虚栄心は、虚栄心がないように見せかけることである」
English
“A man’s vanity is to make it appear as though he has no vanity.”
Explanation
In this quote, Mishima explores the paradox inherent in male vanity. He suggests that the core of a man’s vanity is not to openly display it, but rather to conceal it by creating the appearance of humility or self-sufficiency. In other words, a man’s vanity manifests in the desire to appear free from vanity, which can be a manipulative way of maintaining social status or respectability. This quote reflects Mishima’s belief in the complexity of self-perception and social identity, especially in how men manage their public personas. By hiding their vanity, men can achieve a sense of superiority that is rooted in the illusion of modesty or detachment from personal pride.
This statement also ties into Mishima’s broader reflections on masculinity and society’s expectations of men. Men, according to Mishima, are often expected to hide any signs of weakness or self-interest, even when they are driven by these very impulses. In a culture that values stoicism and self-discipline, men’s vanity is often masked by the appearance of selflessness or indifference. Mishima’s insight suggests that social norms and expectations around masculinity create a dynamic where vanity is internalized and made to seem like a virtue rather than a flaw.
In a modern context, this quote can be seen as a commentary on the way men’s egos are shaped in today’s world. Many men today still feel societal pressure to appear humble, even if their actions are motivated by self-interest or vanity. The idea that vanity can be expressed through the appearance of humility is prevalent in social interactions, especially in leadership roles or public figures, where the image of modesty is often cultivated to enhance respectability. Mishima’s observation encourages us to question the authenticity of self-presentation and how social expectations, particularly around gender, can lead to the suppression or disguising of personal desires or insecurities.
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