“The only virtue of an intellectual is self-awareness, and they must at least be aware of their own absurdity.”
- January 14, 1925 – November 25, 1970
- Born in Japan
- Novelist, playwright, critic, political activist
Japanese
「知識人の唯一の長所は自意識であり、自分の滑稽さぐらいは弁えていなくてはならぬ。」
English
“The only virtue of an intellectual is self-awareness, and they must at least be aware of their own absurdity.”
Explanation
In this quote, Mishima acknowledges that the self-awareness of an intellectual is their only virtue, yet he suggests that this self-awareness is not enough unless the intellectual is also able to recognize their own absurdity or ridiculousness. Mishima appears to be highlighting the contradiction at the heart of intellectualism: while intellectuals may possess a sharp mind and critical awareness, they are often disconnected from the practical aspects of life, making them prone to self-importance or pretension. Mishima’s assertion that intellectuals should recognize their own absurdity calls for a sense of humility, suggesting that intellectualism, when unchecked, can easily lead to a lack of genuine engagement with the world and an overemphasis on abstract ideas at the expense of real experience and action.
Mishima often expressed his discontent with modern intellectualism, seeing it as detached from the vital and heroic aspects of life that he valued. In his worldview, intellectualism can become a form of escapism, where knowledge and self-awareness are used to justify inaction rather than to inspire change or engagement. By recognizing the absurdity in their own positions, intellectuals would not only demonstrate humility but also avoid becoming isolated in their own ivory tower of thought. Mishima’s words call for intellectuals to confront their own self-seriousness and embrace a more authentic, action-oriented approach to life.
In a modern context, Mishima’s words can be seen as a critique of contemporary intellectualism, which is often criticized for being elitist or disconnected from the real world. In a society where academia and high-minded discourse can sometimes seem removed from practical issues or human concerns, Mishima’s call for intellectuals to recognize their own absurdity challenges us to consider the role of self-awareness and humility in intellectual pursuits. His insight reminds us that intellectualism should not lead to self-indulgence or detachment but should remain rooted in the realities of life and human experience.
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