In his notebooks from 1935 to 1942, Albert Camus reflects on the complex relationship between beauty and despair. He suggests that the experience of beauty is often overwhelming, leading to a sense of anguish rather than pure joy. This paradox arises because beauty provides fleeting moments that remind us of an eternal existence, which we yearn to preserve throughout time.

Camus captures the essence of longing in his writing, highlighting that beauty can evoke deep emotional responses. It serves as both an inspiration and a source of torment, reinforcing the idea that life's most profound experiences can simultaneously bring happiness and sorrow. This duality reflects the human condition and our ongoing search for meaning and permanence in a transient world.