“Things born from necessity are accompanied by the bitterness of necessity.”
- January 14, 1925 – November 25, 1970
- Born in Japan
- Novelist, playwright, critic, political activist
Japanese
「必要から生れたものには、必要の苦さが伴う。」
English
“Things born from necessity are accompanied by the bitterness of necessity.”
Explanation
In this quote, Mishima reflects on the inherent bitterness or suffering that arises from necessity. He suggests that when something is born out of necessity—whether it be a task, choice, or circumstance—it often carries an underlying burden or struggle. Necessity implies that something is not freely chosen but rather forced upon the individual, leading to discomfort or unfulfillment in the process. The “bitterness” that Mishima refers to could symbolize the emotional toll or sacrifice that comes with responding to external pressures or practical demands, rather than following one’s own desires or ideals.
Mishima’s statement reflects a broader existential view: necessity often compels individuals to act out of obligation or survival, and in doing so, it strips away the freedom and joy that might otherwise accompany voluntary actions. This can lead to a sense of resentment or regret, as individuals are forced to make choices or sacrifices that, while necessary, do not bring fulfillment or meaning in the way that more self-determined actions might. Mishima’s words highlight the tension between necessity and freedom, suggesting that while necessity may drive individuals to act, it also ties them to duties and circumstances that they may not have freely chosen, leading to a sense of bitterness.
In a modern context, this quote resonates with the pressures people face today, whether in the form of career obligations, family responsibilities, or societal expectations. Many of us often find ourselves making decisions based on necessity, whether it’s to survive, succeed, or meet obligations, rather than out of pure desire or personal passion. Mishima’s reflection calls attention to the emotional costs of such decisions, reminding us that necessity, while unavoidable, can lead to feelings of bitterness when it prevents us from pursuing authentic or meaningful choices in life.
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