“From the very beginning of life, humans give up many things. The first thing you are taught upon being born is ‘to give up.'”
- 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
「人生のいちばんはじめから、人間はずいぶんいろんなものを諦らめる。生れて来て何を最初に教わるって、それは『諦らめる』ことよ。」
English
“From the very beginning of life, humans give up many things. The first thing you are taught upon being born is ‘to give up.'”
Explanation
In this quote, Mishima reflects on the inevitability of compromise and acceptance throughout life. He suggests that, from the moment we are born, we are taught the art of giving up—the process of surrendering certain desires, dreams, and expectations in order to navigate the realities of life. Mishima seems to be commenting on how society and culture impose limits on individuals, teaching them to conform and to abandon aspirations that may seem unrealistic or unattainable. This theme touches on the inevitability of disappointment and the necessity of adaptation in a world that often requires us to compromise our ideals. The lesson of giving up is not necessarily negative, but rather a survival mechanism in a world that does not always align with our desires or expectations.
Mishima’s words point to the tragic nature of human existence—the continuous process of loss and resignation that defines the human condition. Throughout his works, Mishima often explored the tension between ambition and reality, and how individuals, especially in their youth, face the challenge of reconciling their idealistic visions with the limitations imposed by society and circumstance. He suggests that the first lesson we are taught in life is not about achievement or fulfillment, but about accepting the things we cannot have or do. This early lesson shapes much of our psychological landscape, leading us to internalize a sense of loss or resignation from a very young age.
In a modern context, Mishima’s quote speaks to the universal experience of coming to terms with reality as we grow older. In a world where idealism and dreams are often celebrated, Mishima’s reflection reminds us that life is also about adjusting to the limits imposed by society, circumstance, and personal capability. Whether in personal relationships, career goals, or creative ambitions, we are often faced with the need to let go of certain expectations or desires. Mishima’s words serve as a reminder that while giving up may seem like a form of defeat, it can also be a necessary part of growth—learning to focus on what is within our control and embracing reality rather than holding on to ideals that are out of reach.
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