“Those who defend, no matter how powerful their weapons, are destined to be defeated someday.”
- January 14, 1925 – November 25, 1970
- Born in Japan
- Novelist, playwright, critic, political activist
Japanese
「守る側の人間は、どんなに強力な武器を用意していても、いつか倒される運命にあるのだ。」
English
“Those who defend, no matter how powerful their weapons, are destined to be defeated someday.”
Explanation
In this quote, Mishima reflects on the inevitability of defeat for those who are in a defensive position, no matter how strong or well-equipped they may be. He suggests that defending—whether in the context of war, society, or personal struggles—is an inherently vulnerable position, because defensive actions are reactive rather than proactive. Even with the strongest defenses, the defender is ultimately caught in a cycle that leads to their defeat. Mishima’s perspective suggests a fatalistic view of human struggle, where resistance can only delay the inevitable but cannot ultimately prevent it.
The quote also implies that the act of defense can be seen as unsustainable, since it is based on holding back or protecting something that is under attack. Even the strongest weapons or fortifications will eventually fall or be outmatched, and the act of defending becomes a temporary solution rather than a lasting victory. In Mishima’s view, the defender’s position is marked by tension and exhaustion, constantly fighting against an inevitable tide of change or conflict. This reflects his philosophical belief that the struggle itself is a defining feature of life, but that defensive strategies, no matter how strong, cannot avoid eventual defeat.
In a modern context, this quote can be interpreted in relation to political or personal struggles, where those who are in positions of defense—whether protecting a nation, ideology, or way of life—are often eventually overtaken by change or opposition. Mishima’s words serve as a reminder that the defender’s position is inherently unstable, and while strength and preparation may offer temporary security, the nature of defense is such that it cannot ultimately prevent the forces of change or attack from prevailing. In this sense, Mishima speaks to the transience of all defensive efforts and the need to acknowledge the inevitability of change—a concept that applies not only to military defense but also to the personal and societal battles we face.
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