“Old people are inevitably forced to be political.”
- 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
「老人はいやでも政治的であることを強いられる。」
English
“Old people are inevitably forced to be political.”
Explanation
In this quote, Mishima points to the inevitable political awareness that comes with old age. He suggests that as people age, they are increasingly drawn into political matters, whether they want to be or not. This could be because the elderly often face social changes or policies that directly impact their lives—such as healthcare, pensions, and living conditions—which forces them to engage with the political system. The idea of being “forced” into politics reflects the constraints that society places on the elderly, as they may feel obligated to advocate for their rights or defend their way of life against shifting political forces.
Mishima’s statement reflects a realistic view of how age often leads to a more urgent need for political engagement. For many elderly people, the issues of political policy are no longer abstract or distant; they become deeply personal, affecting their day-to-day existence. Whether it is the struggles of healthcare or economic challenges, the elderly are often left with little choice but to respond to the political environment. Mishima’s words also hint at the frustration or reluctance that many might feel in being pushed into political action due to their circumstances, even if they would prefer to remain outside of the political sphere.
In a modern context, this quote resonates with the increasing political mobilization of elderly populations in response to societal challenges. As people age, they often face more direct consequences from government actions, making political engagement almost a necessity. Mishima’s observation could be seen as a commentary on how political systems can neglect or exploit the elderly, forcing them into the role of activists or advocates whether they want to be involved in politics or not.
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