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How does the light of a star set out and plunge into black eternity in its immortal course? The star dies, but the light never dies; such also is the cry of freedom. Out of the transient encounter of contrary forces which constitute your existence, strive to create whatever immortal thing a mortal may create in this world - a Cry. And this Cry, abandoning to the earth the body which gave it birth, proceeds and labors eternally.

Nikos Kazantzakis#77

StruggleFreedomCreationLegacyArtTransience

About this quote

What does it mean?
Like a star's light surviving its death, human cries for freedom can transcend our physical existence. We should strive to create immortal works from our transient struggles.
In plain terms
Create lasting things from your struggles so they outlive you.
What can you take from it?
Turn your struggles into immortal work.

Where it applies

  • creative work
  • activism
  • philosophical writing

Putting it to work

  • write or create art
  • fight for causes
  • leave a legacy

Questions to consider

  • What immortal thing will you create?
  • What struggle defines your life?

Another view

It assumes immortality is the primary goal of human struggle.

More from Nikos Kazantzakis

  1. Humanity is such a lump of mud, each one of us is such a lump of mud. What is our duty? To struggle so that a small flower may blossom from the dunghill of our…

    Permalink to quote #76
  2. A vehement eros runs through the Universe. It is like the ether: harder than steel, softer than air. It cuts through and passes beyond all things, it flees and…

    Permalink to quote #78
  3. What is the essence of our God? The struggle for freedom. In the indestructible darkness a flaming line ascends and emblazons the march of the Invisible. What …

    Permalink to quote #75

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