“Loneliness is a kind of scent that humans emit.”
- January 14, 1925 – November 25, 1970
- Born in Japan
- Novelist, playwright, critic, political activist
Japanese
「淋しさというものは人間の放つ臭気の一種だよ」
English
“Loneliness is a kind of scent that humans emit.”
Explanation
In this quote, Mishima offers a provocative comparison between loneliness and a scent, suggesting that loneliness is not just an internal emotional state, but something that is perceptible or manifested in a way that others can sense. By describing it as a “scent”, he implies that loneliness is an almost tangible presence that can be felt or detected by those around the individual. The metaphor of a scent is significant because it is something that is often unavoidable and intrusive, much like the feeling of loneliness itself—it can linger, affecting both the person experiencing it and those who are in their proximity. The quote suggests that loneliness is not just a private experience but a mark that affects one’s interaction with the world, much like a scent that others can smell or sense.
Mishima’s view of loneliness reflects his broader themes of alienation, identity, and the human condition. He often explored the deep, isolating nature of human existence and how emotions such as loneliness can create a barrier between individuals and the world around them. In this case, he seems to be emphasizing that loneliness is not just something felt internally but is also something that manifests externally, affecting one’s relationships and social interactions. By presenting loneliness as a “scent,” Mishima is also pointing to its inescapability—much like a scent, it can pervade all aspects of life, coloring how the lonely person is perceived by others and how they engage with the world.
In a modern context, Mishima’s words can be seen as a commentary on the visible and invisible ways that loneliness manifests in today’s society. In an age where social media and technology often mask or distort true emotional connection, loneliness can be experienced privately, yet still be felt by others in subtle ways. The metaphor of a scent is especially relevant in a world where people often hide their loneliness behind masks or facades, but it still manages to seep through, affecting their interactions and relationships. Mishima’s quote invites us to reflect on how loneliness is both a deeply personal experience and a shared reality that influences not only the individual but the broader social fabric as well. It challenges us to recognize the invisible marks loneliness leaves on human life, urging us to consider how we might better acknowledge and address this universal human condition.
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