“Man is a mystery. It needs to be unraveled, and if you spend your whole life unraveling it, don't say that you've wasted time. I am studying that mystery because I want to be a human being.”
— Fyodor Dostoevsky
Simplified Meaning:
People are complex and difficult to fully understand. Figuring out what makes a person tick is like solving a puzzle that can take a lifetime. But spending your time trying to understand yourself and others isn't a waste—it’s important and valuable. For example, think about how people go to therapy to understand their feelings and actions better. This helps them become happier and more well-adjusted. The quote suggests that dedicating time to understanding human nature, both your own and others', helps you grow into a better person. It’s telling us that the journey of self-discovery and understanding is worthwhile and meaningful.
Related tags
Existentialism Human nature Humanity Intrinsic value Life purpose Meaning of life Personal growth Philosophy Self-discovery Self-reflectionFEATURED QUOTES