There are horrors beyond life's edge that we do not suspect, and once in a while man's evil prying calls them just within our range.
H. P. LovecraftRead
It is good to be a cynic - it is better to be a contented cat - and it is best not to exist at all.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote reflects on the value of skepticism and contentment, suggesting that not existing might be the ultimate state.
H. P. Lovecraft's quote presents a cynical view of existence, contrasting the attitudes of a cynic and a contented cat. The mention of a cynic suggests a critical perspective on life, where one questions the motives and authenticity of others. In contrast, a contented cat symbolizes a more peaceful state of being, indifferent to the complexities of life. Ultimately, the statement implies that complete non-existence is even more desirable than grappling with such contradictions, highlighting the existential struggles inherent in being alive.
Themes
CynicismContentmentExistencePhilosophyLife
In practice
Example use cases
During a philosophical debate on the nature of existence.
More from H. P. Lovecraft
All quotes →I know always that I am an outsider; a stranger in this century and among those who are still men.
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Searchers after horror haunt strange, far places.
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The process of delving into the black abyss is to me the keenest form of fascination.
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No new horror can be more terrible than the daily torture of the commonplace.
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I am, indeed, an absolute materialist so far as actual belief goes; with not a shred of credence in any form of supernaturalism—religion, spiritualism, transcendentalism, metempsychosis, or immortality.
H. P. LovecraftRead
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