The craving to risk death is our last great perversion. We come from night, we go into night. Why live in night?
This quote reflects on the profound human fascination with risking death, a pursuit that often seems rooted in our deepest desires and fears. It suggests that humans are inherently drawn to the brink of mortality, possibly as a way to confront the unknown, seek meaning, or break free from mundane existence. The references to coming from and returning to night evoke the cyclical nature of life and death, emphasizing our limited lifespan in a universe that is seemingly indifferent to our presence. The phrase questions why we would choose to dwell in darkness or despair—metaphorically living 'in night'—when mortality is an inevitable journey we all share. It prompts a reflection on the nature of existence: Are our explorations and pursuits driven by a rebellious spirit, or by a fear of oblivion? Living 'in night' could imply a life devoid of awareness, hope, or purpose, making the question all the more poignant. The longing to risk death could be seen as a misguided attempt at escaping the futility of life or a desperate search for transcendence. Ultimately, the quote challenges us to consider whether our instincts to confront mortality are misguided or an essential part of human identity, urging us to reflect on what really gives life meaning when faced with its inevitable inescapability.
Book: (The Magus) — Author: John Fowles
