“The kind of friendship between an old couple is the most beautiful work of art in friendship.”
- 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
「老夫妻の間の友情のようなものは、友情のもっとも美しい芸術品である。」
English
“The kind of friendship between an old couple is the most beautiful work of art in friendship.”
Explanation
In this quote, Mishima highlights the deep connection and lasting bond that can form between an elderly couple through the years. He suggests that the friendship that develops between a long-married couple is not just a simple relationship but a refined masterpiece, akin to a work of art. Over time, the shared experiences, mutual respect, and understanding between the couple transcend the surface-level dynamics of typical relationships. It becomes something profound, built on years of intimacy, compromise, and unspoken communication—qualities that can make their bond even more beautiful and enduring than any conventional friendship.
Mishima’s choice of the word “art” emphasizes the refinement and delicacy of the relationship, suggesting that, like a carefully crafted piece of art, the friendship between the couple is shaped and perfected over time. The passage of years together allows for a bond that is not only about love but also about companionship, trust, and the shared understanding that comes with growing old together. It is a testament to the idea that true friendship, particularly in romantic partnerships, can mature into something much more than fleeting affection or superficial connection.
In a modern context, this quote speaks to the power and beauty of long-term relationships and partnerships—especially those that have endured the tests of time. It invites us to reflect on the nature of love and friendship as it evolves over the years, showing that true emotional intimacy, built on mutual understanding and shared history, can indeed become a work of art in its own right. Mishima’s words may serve as a reminder that the most enduring and beautiful relationships are often not those of romantic idealism but of companionship and deep mutual respect.
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