When one has lived for thirty years in this world and had to fight one's way through it, as I have had to do, one becomes hardened to surprises and doesn't take them too seriously.
In Franz Kafka's book "The Trial," the protagonist reflects on his experiences over three decades of life, which have been filled with struggles and challenges. This journey through adversity has led him to develop a certain resilience, making him less susceptible to being shocked by unexpected events. His perspective suggests that prolonged exposure to life's difficulties teaches a person to navigate surprises with a degree of detachment.
The quote emphasizes how living through trials can shape an individual's outlook, fostering a hardened attitude toward the unpredictability of life. Rather than being overwhelmed by surprises, the character learns to approach them with a practical mindset, indicative of a deeper understanding of life's complexities. This portrayal underscores a central theme in Kafka's work regarding the existential challenges faced by individuals in society.
