“There is nothing more annoying than a friend with a habit of confessing.”
- January 14, 1925 – November 25, 1970
- Born in Japan
- Novelist, playwright, critic, political activist
Japanese
「告白癖のある友人ほどうるさいものはない」
English
“There is nothing more annoying than a friend with a habit of confessing.”
Explanation
In this quote, Mishima humorously critiques the habit of those who constantly feel the need to confess or reveal their thoughts, emotions, or feelings. The confession in this context can refer to various types of self-disclosure, whether it’s personal feelings, guilt, or secret admissions. Mishima portrays this habit of confession as something excessive and tiresome, highlighting how the continuous need to share one’s inner world can become an overwhelming and incessant behavior, particularly when it involves personal vulnerability that others may not necessarily seek to hear. For Mishima, the friend who frequently confesses becomes a burden or a distraction, as their constant need to open up creates an uncomfortable atmosphere and draws attention away from more substantial conversations or actions.
Mishima’s criticism may reflect his broader thoughts on individuality and privacy. Throughout his works, he often explored the tension between personal expression and the need for control over one’s own identity. In this quote, he appears to advocate for a certain level of restraint in personal expression, especially when it becomes a repetitive, unnecessary, or intrusive act. The constant self-revelation can, in Mishima’s view, undermine the strength and mystery of an individual, leaving them more vulnerable and potentially alienating those around them. It suggests that an excessive focus on personal confession can lead to an imbalance, where authenticity or meaningful connection is lost in favor of emotional exhibitionism.
In a modern context, Mishima’s words may resonate with the growing culture of constant self-disclosure in social media and public platforms, where people frequently feel the need to share their thoughts, emotions, and private lives with a broader audience. This quote encourages us to reflect on whether such confessions truly add value or if they might just serve as a form of noise, detracting from deeper, more meaningful conversations and relationships. Mishima’s perspective calls for a balance between authenticity and restraint, suggesting that while personal expression is important, over-sharing can become more of a burden than a benefit.
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