“The role that society demands from the young is that of a gullible, sincere listener, nothing more.”
- 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
「世間が若い者に求める役割は、欺され易い誠実な聴き手ということで、それ以上の何ものでもない。」
English
“The role that society demands from the young is that of a gullible, sincere listener, nothing more.”
Explanation
In this quote, Mishima critiques the role that society imposes on youth, reducing them to passive recipients of information and authority. The description of the young as “gullible” and “sincere” implies that society expects youth to accept ideas and structures without question, placing value on their obedience and compliance rather than their critical thinking or independent action. Mishima suggests that the role of youth is not to question or challenge the status quo, but rather to listen earnestly to what is presented to them. This perspective underscores the limitations placed on youth, framing their potential as narrowly confined to passivity and receptivity rather than active engagement and self-determination. The phrase “nothing more” further emphasizes that youth is expected to play no greater part in society beyond simple acceptance and conformity.
Mishima’s reflection speaks to his broader critique of the social structures that demand compliance from individuals, particularly youth. He often explored themes of individuality and the tension between personal autonomy and social expectations. In this context, the quote reveals his disdain for the way society seeks to control or restrict the actions and thoughts of the younger generation by relegating them to the role of a passive listener. This can be seen as a critique of a world that values conformity over self-expression and critical thought, where youth are expected to be obedient rather than engaged.
In a modern context, Mishima’s words resonate with contemporary debates about the expectations placed on younger generations, particularly in terms of their role in society and their ability to challenge existing power structures. With the rise of social media, globalization, and rapid technological change, young people today are often flooded with information and opinions, yet the expectation of them to simply listen and absorb without questioning can still persist. Mishima’s quote challenges us to rethink the role of youth in society—encouraging active participation and self-determined thought rather than passive acceptance of the world as it is presented.
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