“The certainty of having no certainty holds the most unshakable conviction.”
- January 14, 1925 – November 25, 1970
- Born in Japan
- Novelist, playwright, critic, political activist
Japanese
「確信がないという確信はいちばん動かしがたいものを持っている」
English
“The certainty of having no certainty holds the most unshakable conviction.”
Explanation
In this quote, Mishima paradoxically describes how the certainty of doubt can become the most firm or unshakable conviction. He suggests that when one is absolutely certain about their lack of certainty, this certainty itself can be more stable and resistant to change than any other form of belief. This concept plays on the idea that doubt and uncertainty can, in some cases, create a sense of inner strength because it represents a final conclusion about the impossibility of knowing or understanding something fully. In this way, certainty in doubt provides a fixed point of view, even if that point is rooted in the absence of answers. Mishima seems to point out the ironically firm nature of being certain about one’s inability to be certain, a conviction that resists any challenge because it is inherently self-validating.
Mishima’s reflection here touches on his broader theme of the human condition and the existential struggles he often depicted in his work. The search for meaning, identity, and truth is frequently undermined by uncertainty, yet acknowledging and embracing that uncertainty can sometimes lead to a firm understanding of one’s own limitations. In a world full of conflicting beliefs and ideals, the certainty of doubt can become a powerful tool for maintaining mental stability, as it removes the burden of having to commit to any single truth or outcome.
In a modern context, Mishima’s statement could be applied to contemporary existential and philosophical thought, where uncertainty and doubt are often embraced as part of the human experience in a world that is increasingly complex and unpredictable. The acknowledgment of uncertainty in areas such as identity, purpose, or truth can provide a sense of empowerment and freedom. Today, many philosophical and psychological frameworks encourage individuals to accept uncertainty as an inherent part of life, suggesting that this acceptance can lead to greater peace and understanding. Mishima’s quote invites us to reflect on how doubt, when fully embraced, can create a sense of personal conviction that is perhaps even more resilient than certainty itself.
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