In his book "What I Talk About When I Talk About Running," Haruki Murakami explores the themes of endurance and the mental challenges faced during long-distance running. He emphasizes that while pain is an unavoidable aspect of life and physical exertion, the way we handle that pain is crucial. The distinction between pain and suffering lies in our perception and response to difficult experiences.

Murakami's quote, "Pain is inevitable. Suffering is optional," suggests that experiencing discomfort is a part of any meaningful journey, but the suffering we inflict on ourselves through our thoughts and attitudes can be controlled. This perspective encourages readers to embrace pain as a natural part of life and to focus on how they interpret and react to it, ultimately leading to personal growth and resilience.