3 Zhuangzi Quotes on Identity

Zhuangzi quotes on identity

1. Once upon a time, I, Chuang Chou, dreamt I was a butterfly, fluttering hither and thither, to all intents and purposes a butterfly. I was conscious only of my happiness as a butterfly, unaware that I was Chou. Soon I awaked, and there I was, veritably myself again. Now I do not know whether I was then a man dreaming I was a butterfly, or whether I am now a butterfly, dreaming I am a man. Between a man and a butterfly there is necessarily a distinction. The transition is called the transformation of material things.

4. Forget the years, forget distinctions. Leap into the boundless and make it your home!

13. He who pursues fame at the risk of losing his self is not a sage.