Quote by E. M. Cioran

Show me one thing here on earth which has begun well and not ended badly. The proudest palpitations are engulfed in a sewer, where they cease throbbing, as though having reached their natural term: this downfall constitutes the heart's drama and the negative meaning of history.

Show me one thing here on earth which has begun well and not

Summary

This quote suggests that everything on earth, regardless of how promising it may start, inevitably ends poorly. The "proudest palpitations" symbolize the highest aspirations and achievements of individuals or societies, but they ultimately succumb to inevitable decay. The mention of a sewer implies that these great ambitions are ultimately consumed or overwhelmed by the negative aspects of life. Thus, the quote implies that the downfall and eventual demise of these aspirations are the core elements of both personal and historical tragedy.

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By E. M. Cioran

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