“Today, the word ‘tradition’ has almost turned into a kind of scandal.”
- January 14, 1925 – November 25, 1970
- Born in Japan
- Novelist, playwright, critic, political activist
Japanese
「今日、伝統という言葉は、ほとんど一種のスキャンダルに化した」
English
“Today, the word ‘tradition’ has almost turned into a kind of scandal.”
Explanation
In this quote, Mishima critiques the modern view of tradition, suggesting that the concept of tradition has been distorted or discredited in contemporary society. The metaphor of “turning into a scandal” implies that the word tradition now carries a negative connotation—it is seen as outdated, irrelevant, or even embarrassing in modern discourse. Mishima highlights how society’s increasing focus on progress, individualism, and modernity has led to a rejection or neglect of traditional values and cultural practices. What was once a revered and stabilizing force in society has now become a controversial or disruptive concept, almost as though it is something to be ashamed of rather than celebrated.
Mishima’s statement reflects his broader concerns about the erosion of traditional values in a world increasingly oriented toward modernism and westernization. He often lamented the loss of cultural identity and spiritual depth, which he believed were being undermined by the embrace of modernity at the expense of historical continuity. For Mishima, tradition represented not just the preservation of old customs, but a connection to the past, a deeper understanding of identity, and a sense of meaning in a rapidly changing world. The scandalous nature of the word tradition in contemporary society highlights how this deeper connection to the past has been rejected in favor of a more temporary, superficial vision of progress.
In a modern context, this quote speaks to the growing tension between tradition and modernity in today’s globalized world. As society becomes more globalized, technologically advanced, and individualistic, the traditional ways of life and the customs of earlier generations are often forgotten or disregarded in favor of new ideals and innovations. Mishima’s words challenge us to consider whether we have lost something important in the process of modernization and whether we might need to reclaim or reimagine tradition in a way that honors the past without becoming stagnant or antiquated. Mishima’s quote serves as a reminder that while progress is important, tradition plays a crucial role in maintaining a sense of continuity, identity, and meaning in an ever-changing world.
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