“Destruction, more than construction, shows the proof of one’s power right before one’s eyes.”
- January 14, 1925 – November 25, 1970
- Born in Japan
- Novelist, playwright, critic, political activist
- He became a representative figure of postwar Japanese literature, and was highly acclaimed both at home and abroad. He pursued his own unique aesthetic with themes of beauty and death, and ultimately committed seppuku at a Self-Defense Forces garrison. His life, which combined literature with action, continues to have a strong influence today.
Japanese
「建設よりも破壊のほうが、ずっと自分の力の証拠を目のあたり見せてくれるものだった」
English
“Destruction, more than construction, shows the proof of one’s power right before one’s eyes.”
Explanation
In this quote, Mishima argues that destruction is a more immediate and tangible expression of power than construction. He suggests that destroying something offers a direct, visible result, allowing one to immediately witness the impact of their strength, will, or capability. Destruction is often perceived as a forceful and visible action, where the effects are immediately felt and seen, thus serving as an unmistakable demonstration of one’s control over the world. In contrast, construction—building or creating something—may be a more gradual, complex process that does not offer the same instant gratification or clear-cut proof of one’s ability. Mishima’s reflection suggests that destruction, with its immediate and consequential impact, can appear to offer a more direct manifestation of power than the slower, often subtler process of creation.
Mishima’s view on the relationship between destruction and power is tied to his broader philosophical exploration of strength, will, and the human desire for control. Throughout his works, Mishima often explores how individuals are drawn to assertive or aggressive actions that make their power clear to others, and sometimes even to themselves. In this context, destruction becomes a form of self-expression or proof, one that does not require the patience or subtlety demanded by creation. The act of tearing down or shattering something offers an instant reflection of the individual’s force, making it a more immediate and gratifying form of self-assertion than the act of patiently building or creating something over time.
In a modern context, this quote invites reflection on the appeal of destruction in both individual and societal actions. In a world where instant results are often valued and visible power is frequently emphasized, the urge for destruction—whether through political upheaval, personal conflict, or cultural shifts—can seem like a more direct and effective way to assert control or demonstrate strength. Mishima’s words challenge us to consider the implications of such actions and to question whether true power lies in the destruction of existing structures, or in the creation of something lasting and meaningful. His quote reminds us that while destruction may offer immediate satisfaction, construction—though more demanding—holds the potential for creating something enduring and transformative.
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