Great feelings take with them their own universe, splendid or abject. They light up with their passion an exclusive world in which they recognize their climate. There is a universe of jealousy, of ambition, of selfishness or generosity. A universe - in other words a metaphysic and an attitude of mind.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Camus describes how strong emotions create their own worlds—jealousy, ambition, selfishness, generosity—forming a personal metaphysics and mindset.
- In plain terms
- Intense feelings generate distinct inner worlds and attitudes.
- What can you take from it?
- Be aware that emotions shape your personal reality.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Which emotion defines your current inner world?
- How can you shift from a negative to a positive emotional universe?
Another view
Emotions can also distort perception of external reality.
More from Albert Camus
Great novelists are philosopher-novelists whom write in images instead of arguments.
Permalink to quote #26 At any street corner the feeling of absurdity can strike any man in the face.
Permalink to quote #28 Like great works, deep feelings always mean more than they are conscious of saying.
Permalink to quote #25
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