“From the hardship of being on the defensive, from the suffering of being pursued, comes a cunning that is not easily understood.”
- January 14, 1925 – November 25, 1970
- Born in Japan
- Novelist, playwright, critic, political activist
Japanese
「守勢に立つ側の辛さ、追われる者の辛さからは、容易ならぬ狡知が生れる」
English
“From the hardship of being on the defensive, from the suffering of being pursued, comes a cunning that is not easily understood.”
Explanation
In this quote, Mishima reflects on the psychological and moral consequences of being on the defensive or pursued. He suggests that when a person is in a position of vulnerability—whether physically, socially, or emotionally—the suffering and pressure they experience can lead to the development of cunning or cleverness that may be difficult to comprehend. The phrase “easily understood” implies that the cunning developed in such circumstances is not simply intellectual or strategic but often stems from a deep emotional and existential struggle. In moments of desperation or fear, individuals may resort to deceptive tactics or manipulation as a means of survival or to regain some sense of control. Mishima underscores the complexity of human behavior in such situations, recognizing that cunning born from suffering is a survival mechanism, and not necessarily an expression of malice.
Mishima’s exploration of defensiveness and pursuit delves into the broader themes of power dynamics and moral ambiguity. He often examined the tension between victims and oppressors, and how individuals under pressure may adopt morally questionable means to protect themselves or advance their interests. This quote highlights the way in which difficult circumstances can shape character, particularly the development of cleverness or strategy that is born not from a desire for power but from the need to cope with hardship. The suffering of being pursued often breeds a kind of resourcefulness that can be both admirable and dangerous, depending on the individual’s choices and the context.
In a modern context, Mishima’s words resonate with the psychological dynamics of oppression and conflict. Whether in personal relationships, corporate environments, or international politics, the pursued often develop a form of cunning to navigate situations where they are at a disadvantage. This can manifest in survival tactics such as manipulation, deception, or adaptation to an increasingly complex and competitive world. Mishima’s reflection serves as a reminder that suffering and vulnerability can lead to the creation of strategies that may not always be morally clear-cut, and that understanding the causes of cunning requires recognizing the deeper psychological pressures and struggles that shape human behavior.
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