“Most people's reality is an illusion, a great big illusion. You automatically have to succumb to the illusion that 'I am this body'. I am not George. I am not really George. I am this living thing that goes on, always has been, always will be, but at this time I happen to be in 'this' body. The body has changed; was a baby, was a young man, will soon be an old man, and I'll be dead. The physical body will pass but this bit in the middle, that's the only reality. All the rest is the illusion, so to say that somebody thinks we are, the ex-Beatles are removed from reality in their personal concept. It does not have any truth to it just because somebody thinks it. They are the concepts which become layer upon layer of illusion. Why live in the darkness all your life? Why, if you are unhappy, if you are having a miserable time, why not just look at it. Why are you in the darkness? Look for the light. The light is within. That is the big message”
Explore This Quote Further
-
Working on it...
-
Working on it...
-
Working on it...
Quote Analysis: George Harrison on Illusion and Inner Reality
In this thoughtful reflection, George Harrison delves into the philosophical distinction between outer identity and inner essence. He challenges the common assumption that our physical bodies and socially constructed identities define who we truly are, suggesting instead that these are merely transient illusions.
Harrison begins by asserting that most people mistakenly identify themselves with their bodies—“I am this body”—and by extension with names and roles, such as “George” or “the ex-Beatles.” He emphasizes the temporal nature of the physical form, which changes and eventually dies, contrasting it with the continuous "living thing" or consciousness that transcends physical existence. This “bit in the middle,” or inner self, represents the only true reality, while the rest is described as illusion.
The quote also serves as a call to self-awareness and liberation from mental constructs that obscure true understanding. Harrison encourages those suffering or living in "darkness" to seek “the light” within themselves rather than accepting external definitions or illusions. This inward journey towards enlightenment is framed as “the big message,” highlighting spirituality and self-discovery as the paths to authentic existence beyond superficial identities.
Overall, the quote encapsulates Harrison’s spiritual philosophy influenced by Eastern thought and his desire to inspire others to look beyond illusory appearances to find lasting peace and truth within.
Similar quotes
“George: [On the 'Two Virgins' cover]'What I thought of the sleeve then was the same as I think now: it's just two not-very-nice-looking bodies, two flabby bodies naked. It's harmless, really - different strokes for different folks.”
“What was it? Why won't you tell me?""I don't want to break down your illusions.""My dear man, I have no illusions about you.""I mean illusions about yourself.”
“Death should hold no fear for a man as old as me, but it does. Isn't that silly? It is always dark where I am, so why should I fear the darkness? Yet I cannot help but wonder what will follow, when the last warmth leaves my body.”
“Yes, I have tricks in my pocket, I have things up my sleeve. But I am the opposite of a stage magician. He gives you illusion that has the appearance of truth. I give you truth in the pleasant disguise of illusion.”
“If you know something is an illusion, why pretend it is reality?”
“People enjoy the passion of delusions. However, the world is built on a basis that if you free yourself, you find yourself within another illusion. There is always a truth hidden within a truth. It is no different from illusions and deceptions of reality. The question then becomes -- how does one become truly free?”