“One must not forget that those who are pure and beautiful are, in essence, the enemies of humanity.”
- January 14, 1925 – November 25, 1970
- Born in Japan
- Novelist, playwright, critic, political activist
Japanese
「純粋で美しい者は、そもそも人間の敵なのだということを忘れてはいけない」
English
“One must not forget that those who are pure and beautiful are, in essence, the enemies of humanity.”
Explanation
In this quote, Mishima expresses a paradoxical view about purity and beauty, suggesting that they are, in some way, in conflict with human nature. The statement reflects his belief that purity and beauty, often considered virtues, can be alienating and destructive. To Mishima, the idealization of purity—whether in the form of moral, aesthetic, or physical perfection—can be seen as an imposition that disrupts the messy, imperfect nature of human existence. Humanity, in its essence, is complex and often defined by its flaws, contradictions, and struggles. In this light, those who embody an idealized form of purity and beauty might be perceived as unnatural or detached from the realities of human life. They may represent an aspiration that is both inaccessible and alienating, leading to frustration and resentment from those who cannot attain such ideals.
Mishima’s words also delve into his broader themes of idealism, imperfection, and the human condition. Throughout his works, he often expressed skepticism toward the pursuit of idealized beauty and purity, arguing that such goals, while attractive in theory, ultimately undermine the essence of human existence. The imperfection of the human experience, for Mishima, is a necessary condition for growth, empathy, and authenticity. The pursuit of perfection—in beauty, morality, or behavior—can sometimes lead to isolation and disconnection from the true human experience, which is grounded in the acceptance of flaws and struggles. Mishima warns that an overemphasis on these ideals can make individuals or society hostile to the very things that make us human—vulnerability, imperfection, and emotion.
In a modern context, Mishima’s statement offers a critique of contemporary society’s obsession with perfection, whether it’s through social media, cosmetic surgery, or the idealization of physical and moral beauty. Today’s world is often consumed with the idea of attaining perfection, whether in appearance, success, or behavior, and Mishima’s words caution that such aspirations may, in fact, be harmful. The idealization of purity and beauty can dehumanize individuals by placing unattainable standards on them, leading to alienation and self-loathing for those who fall short. Mishima encourages us to reconsider the value of imperfection and to acknowledge that true humanity lies not in the pursuit of flawless beauty, but in the acceptance of our complex, imperfect natures.
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