“Narcissus, because of his exceptional pride, sometimes loves a flawed mirror.”
- January 14, 1925 – November 25, 1970
- Born in Japan
- Novelist, playwright, critic, political activist
Japanese
「ナルシスは、その並々ならぬ誇りのために、却って不出来な鏡を愛する場合がある。」
English
“Narcissus, because of his exceptional pride, sometimes loves a flawed mirror.”
Explanation
In this quote, Mishima explores the paradoxical nature of pride and self-love, using the figure of Narcissus, a symbol of excessive self-admiration, as a metaphor. Narcissus, in Greek mythology, falls in love with his own reflection, which ultimately leads to his downfall. Mishima suggests that pride—especially an excessive or inflated sense of self-worth—can cause a person to overlook reality and embrace imperfections or flaws, symbolized by the “flawed mirror.” Rather than seeking clarity or truth, someone consumed by their pride may be drawn to distorted or imperfect reflections of themselves because they provide a more comfortable or idealized version of who they believe they are.
Mishima’s use of the “flawed mirror” reflects his broader theme of how people, particularly those with excessive pride, can distort their self-perception in a way that ultimately leads to self-deception. The mirror, in this case, symbolizes self-awareness, but the imperfection of the reflection suggests that such individuals may avoid confronting their true selves, choosing instead to bask in an illusion that reinforces their self-image. This can be seen as a commentary on how pride can blind one to the flaws and realities of their own character, making them prefer a distorted reflection over an accurate one.
In a modern context, this quote resonates with how narcissism and self-obsession manifest in today’s world, especially in the age of social media. Many people today seek validation through carefully curated images of themselves, often choosing to present a version of themselves that is flawed or idealized, rather than an honest reflection. Mishima’s insight serves as a reminder of the dangers of allowing pride to cloud our self-awareness, encouraging us to confront our real selves rather than relying on distorted mirrors that reinforce our egos.
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