Quote by Joseph Conrad, Heart of Darkness
I have wrestled with death. It is the most unexciting contest you can imagine. It takes place in an impalpable greyness, with nothing underfoot, with nothing around, without spectators, without clamour, without glory, without the great desire of victory, without the great fear of defeat, in a sickly atmosphere of tepid scepticism, without much belief in your own right, and still less in that of your adversary. If such is the form of ultimate wisdom, then life is a greater riddle than some of us think it to be. I was within a hair's-breadth of the last opportunity for pronouncement, and I found with humiliation that probably I would have nothing to say.
Summary
This quote, penned by renowned philosopher and author Joseph Conrad, offers a starkly realistic portrayal of the experience of wrestling with death. Conrad depicts death as an unremarkable and lackluster contest, void of excitement, spectators, glory, and the fervent desire to win or fear of losing. He describes it as a battle fought in a desolate and doubtful realm, where neither side holds much confidence in their own righteousness. Ultimately, Conrad reflects on the enigmatic nature of life and humbly acknowledges his realization that, even on the brink of facing death, he may have nothing profound or meaningful to say.
Topics
Death
Liked the quote? Share it with your friends.
Random Quotations
