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I thought that it was strange to assume that it was abnormal for anyone to be forever asking questions about the nature of the universe, about what the human condition really was, my condition, what I was doing here, if there was really something to do. It seemed to me on the contrary that it was abnormal for people not to think about it, for them to allow themselves to live, as it were, unconsciously. Perhaps it's because everyone, all the others, are convinced in some unformulated, irrational way that one day everything will be made clear. Perhaps there will be a morning of grace for humanity. Perhaps there will be a morning of grace for me.

Eugene Ionesco#9

PhilosophyConsciousnessCuriosityLifeMeaning

About this quote

What does it mean?
Questioning existence is normal; not thinking about it is abnormal.
In plain terms
It is normal to question life and abnormal not to.
What can you take from it?
Think deeply about your existence.

Where it applies

  • contemplation
  • personal growth
  • philosophy

Putting it to work

  • reflect on life
  • avoid unconscious living

Questions to consider

  • What do you question most?
  • Is conscious living important?

Another view

Some people find peace without deep questioning.

More from Eugene Ionesco

  1. But History was against me. History is right, objectively speaking. I'm just a historical dead end. I hope at least that my fate will serve as an example to yo…

    Permalink to quote #8
  2. It is not the answer that enlightens, but the question.

    Permalink to quote #10
  3. I am not capitulating.

    Permalink to quote #7

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