“The Devil pulls the strings which make us dance;We find delight in the most loathsome things;Some furtherance of Hell each new day brings,And yet we feel no horror in that rank advance.”
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Quote Analysis
In this quote by Charles Baudelaire, the speaker reflects on the idea that humans are often drawn to sinful or immoral behavior. The imagery of "The Devil pulls the strings which make us dance" suggests that we are easily manipulated by temptations and desires that are not good for us. Despite knowing that these actions may lead us further into darkness, the speaker notes that there is a certain perverse pleasure in indulging in these behaviors. The phrase "and yet we feel no horror in that rank advance" highlights the paradoxical nature of human behavior, as we often continue down destructive paths without feeling remorse or horror at our actions. Overall, Baudelaire's quote delves into the complexities of human nature and the allure of temptation even in the face of divine consequences.
Modern Relevance of Charles Baudelaire's Quote
In this quote by Charles Baudelaire, he explores the idea of how humanity is often drawn to darkness and temptation, finding pleasure in things that are considered morally wrong. This concept still holds relevance in modern society as individuals continue to engage in behaviors that may be considered destructive or harmful, yet they do so without feeling any real fear or hesitation. The quote serves as a reminder of the complex nature of human desires and the struggles we face in navigating between good and evil in our daily lives.
Charles Baudelaire on the Temptations of Evil
"The Devil pulls the strings which make us dance;
We find delight in the most loathsome things;
Some furtherance of Hell each new day brings,
And yet we feel no horror in that rank advance."
This quote from Charles Baudelaire reflects on the allure of evil and how humanity can be drawn into darkness without realizing the consequences.
Reflection Questions:
In this haunting quote by Charles Baudelaire, the idea of being manipulated by dark forces and finding pleasure in undesirable things is explored. Reflect on these questions to delve deeper into the meaning behind these words:
How do you interpret the relationship between being controlled by negative forces and experiencing pleasure in taboo or forbidden actions?
Do you believe that humans are inherently drawn to darkness and find it seductive despite knowing its destructive nature? Why or why not?
In what ways do you see this internal struggle between acknowledging the harmful aspects of our actions while still being drawn to them reflected in society or in your own life?
How can we reconcile the conflicting feelings of enjoyment and horror that often accompany engaging in behaviors that we know are detrimental to our well-being?
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“Each day we take another step to hell,Descending through the stench, unhorrified”
“the Devil's hand directs our every move - / the things we loathed become the things we love”
“It's time, Old Captain, lift anchor, sink!The land rots; we shall sail into the night;if now the sky and sea are black as inkour hearts, as you must know, are filled with light.Only when we drink poison are we well —we want, this fire so burns our brain tissue,to drown in the abyss — heaven or hell,who cares? Through the unknown, we'll find the new. ("Le Voyage")”
“Plonger au fond du gouffre, Enfer ou Ciel, qu'importe? / Au fond de l'Inconnu pour trouver du NOUVEAU! (rough translation : Into the abyss -- Heaven or Hell, what difference does it make? / To the depths of the Unknown to find the NEW!)”
“With heart at rest I climbed the citadel'sSteep height, and saw the city as from a tower,Hospital, brothel, prison, and such hells,Where evil comes up softly like a flower.Thou knowest, O Satan, patron of my pain,Not for vain tears I went up at that hour;But like an old sad faithful lecher, fainTo drink delight of that enormous trullWhose hellish beauty makes me young again.Whether thou sleep, with heavy vapors full,Sodden with day, or, new appareled, standIn gold-laced veils of evening beautiful,I love thee, infamous city! Harlots andHunted have pleasures of their own to give,The vulgar herd can never understand.”