You live in a deranged age, more deranged that usual, because in spite of great scientific and technological advances, man has not the faintest idea of who he is or what he is doing.
Walker PercyRead
They all think any minute I'm going to commit suicide. What a joke. The truth of course is the exact opposite: suicide is the only thing that keeps me alive. Whenever everything else fails, all I have to do is consider suicide and in two seconds I'm as cheerful as a nitwit. But if I could not kill myself -- ah then, I would. I can do without nembutal or murder mysteries but not without suicide.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote reflects on the paradoxical nature of suicidal thoughts, suggesting that contemplating them brings a sense of relief and cheer to the speaker.
Walker Percy’s quote explores the complex relationship between suicidal ideation and the value of life. It presents the idea that the mere consideration of suicide can paradoxically provide a sense of comfort and happiness, as it highlights the speaker's control over their existence. This reflection illuminates the depth of despair that can accompany mental anguish, while also revealing a glimmer of hope through the capability to choose life over death.
Themes
SuicideMental HealthParadoxExistenceDespairHope
In practice
Example use cases
This quote could be used in a mental health awareness speech to illustrate the complexities of suicidal thoughts.
More from Walker Percy
All quotes →It is possible, however, that the artist is both thin-skinned and prophetic and, like the canary lowered into the mine shaft to test the air, has caught a whiff of something lethal.
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Why is it that one can look at a lion or a planet or an owl or at someone's finger as long as one pleases, but looking into the eyes of another person is, if prolonged past a second, a perilous affair?
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We love those who know the worst of us and don't turn their faces away.
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Before, I wandered as a diversion. Now I wander seriously and sit and read as a diversion.
Walker PercyRead
Since grief only aggravates your loss, grieve not for what is past.
Walker PercyRead
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