I strive to discover how to signal my companions before I die, how to give them a hand, how to spell out for them in time one complete word at least, to tell them what I think this procession is, and toward what we go. And how necessary it is for all of us together to put our steps and hearts in harmony. To say in time a simple word to my companions, a password, like conspirators. Yes, the purpose of Earth is not life, it is not man. Earth has existed without these, and it will live on without them. They are but the ephemeral sparks of its violent whirling. Let us unite, let us hold each other tightly, let us merge our hearts, let us create - so long as the warmth of this earth endures, so long as no earthquakes, cataclysms, icebergs or comets come to destroy us - let us create for Earth a brain and a heart, let us give a human meaning to the superhuman struggle. This anguish is our second duty.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Seek to communicate purpose to companions before dying. Unite to give Earth meaning through creation before destruction arrives.
- In plain terms
- Connect with others to create meaning for Earth before time runs out.
- What can you take from it?
- Unite with others to create meaning in a brief existence.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- What message do you want to leave?
- How do you find unity with others?
Another view
Assumes human effort can meaningfully impact a superhuman scale.
More from Nikos Kazantzakis
I am a weak, ephemeral creature made of mud and dream. But I feel all the powers of the universe whirling within me.
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Permalink to quote #23 Never acknowledge the limitations of man. Smash all boundaries! Deny whatever your eyes see. Die every moment, but say: 'Death does not exist.'
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