“Only literature, considered as something higher than life itself, can reveal the true meaning of life.”
- 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
「生活よりも高次なものとして考えられた文学のみが、生活の真の意味を明かしてくれるのだ」
English
“Only literature, considered as something higher than life itself, can reveal the true meaning of life.”
Explanation
In this quote, Mishima asserts that literature has the unique ability to reveal the deeper truths of life—truths that might not be immediately apparent through everyday existence. By positioning literature as something higher than life, Mishima suggests that art and writing allow us to see beyond the mundane and the surface-level experiences of daily life, offering insights into the human condition that cannot be grasped through mere participation in the world. Literature, in Mishima’s view, transcends life itself by providing a means to understand the essence of existence, including its struggles, joys, and complexities. It becomes a tool through which we can explore and uncover the meaning of life in a more profound way than living life directly might offer.
Mishima’s words speak to the role of art—and particularly literature—in shaping our understanding of the world. Throughout his works, he emphasized the importance of elevating human experience through artistic expression, claiming that only through creativity and imagination can we truly come to terms with the meaning of our existence. In this sense, literature serves as a mirror to life, reflecting not just the physical world but also the emotional, psychological, and spiritual dimensions of human experience that might otherwise be ignored or overlooked. By engaging with literature, readers can access new perspectives and understandings that might otherwise be out of reach in their ordinary lives.
In a modern context, Mishima’s statement reminds us of the enduring power of literature to provide clarity and insight into the human experience, especially in an era where we are often distracted by immediacy and superficiality. With digital media and instant communication shaping how we interact with the world, the depth and reflectiveness of literature offer a chance to connect with the broader and more profound aspects of life. Mishima’s quote suggests that, in a world constantly rushing forward, art—particularly literature—has the power to pause time and illuminate the deeper meanings of our existence, offering us an opportunity for reflection and understanding that everyday life cannot provide.
Would you like to share your impressions or related stories about this quote in the comments section?
