Those who weep for the happy periods which they encounter in history acknowledge what they want; not the alleviation but the silencing of misery.
Interpretation
The quote highlights the desire for an escape from suffering rather than a mere wish for happiness.
Albert Camus reflects on how people often mourn the past joyful moments in history, expressing longing not just for happiness itself, but for an end to suffering and misery. This suggests a deep understanding of human nature, where the weight of sorrow amplifies the appreciation of joy, prompting individuals to seek more than ephemeral bliss—they yearn for a profound resolution to their struggles.
In practice
In a discussion about the cycles of joy and suffering in history.
The Poor Man whom everyone speaks of, the Poor Man whom everyone pities, one of the repulsive Poor from whom charitable souls keep their distance, he has still said nothing. Or, rather, he has spoken through the voice of Victor Hugo, Zola, Richepin. At least, they said so. And these shameful impostures fed their authors. Cruel irony, the Poor Man tormented with hunger feeds those who plead his case.
The certainty of a God giving meaning to life far surpasses in attractiveness the ability to behave badly with impunity. The choice would not be hard to make. But there is no choice and that is where the bitterness comes in. The absurd does not liberate; it binds.
Between history and the eternal I have chosen history because I like certainties. Of it, at least, I am certain, and how can I deny this force crushing me.
Don't wait for the last judgment - it takes place every day.
A single sentence will suffice for modern man. He fornicated and read the papers. After that vigorous definition, the subject will be, if I may say so, exhausted.
At times I feel myself overtaken by an immense tenderness for these people around me who live in the same century.
Every religion is good—every religion is true to him who in his good caution and conscience believes it.
Holiness is the balance between my nature and the law of God as expressed in Jesus Christ.
Some think I wink at them when I shut my eyes to avoid their sight.
Then I grew up, and the beauty of succulent illusions fell away from me.
But for me the sweetest contact with God has no form. I close my eyes, look within, and enter a deep soft silence. The infinity of God's creation embraces me.
Women have seldom sufficient employment to silence their feelings; a round of little cares, or vain pursuits frittering away all strength of mind and organs, they become naturally only objects of sense.
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