A man may destroy everything within himself, love and hate and belief, and even doubt; but as long as he clings to life he cannot destroy fear: the fear, subtle, indestructible, and terrible, that pervades his being; that tinges his thoughts; that lurks in his heart; that watches on his lips the struggle of his last breath.
The quote reflects the profound internal struggle that individuals face regarding their emotions and beliefs. It suggests that while a person might succeed in suppressing or discarding feelings such as love, hate, and faith, the fundamental fear of existence remains unshakeable. This fear is described as a persistent and ever-present force that influences thoughts and emotions, underscoring the human condition's inherent vulnerability.
Conrad's depiction shows that no matter how much one attempts to conquer or understand their psyche, fear remains an indelible part of life. It highlights the irony that while a man can confront and dismantle various elements of his inner self, fear endures as a non-negotiable aspect of the human experience, ever-present and influential even in moments of ultimate struggle.
