“To live is to war with trolls in heart and soul.To write is to sit in judgement on oneself.”
Quote Analysis
Henrik Johan Ibsen's quote, "To live is to war with trolls in heart and soul. To write is to sit in judgement on oneself," offers profound insight into the struggles of both living and writing. The metaphor of warring with trolls suggests the internal battles faced by individuals on a daily basis, highlighting the constant conflict within one's own heart and soul.
The second part of the quote emphasizes the introspective nature of writing, suggesting that the act of putting pen to paper requires a deep level of self-reflection and scrutiny. Ibsen seems to be drawing a parallel between the challenges of life and the challenges of writing, both of which require a level of inner strength and self-awareness. Overall, this quote underscores the emotional and intellectual complexities inherent in human existence and creativity.
Modern Relevance
In today's digital age where social media allows for instant sharing and criticism, Henrik Johan Ibsen's words ring truer than ever. The constant battle with inner doubts and inner critics is a common struggle for many writers and creators. This quote serves as a reminder of the importance of self-reflection and self-critique in the creative process.
Henrik Johan Ibsen on Living and Writing
Ibsen, a famous Norwegian playwright, poignantly reflects on the challenges of life and the creative process in this quote.
- "To live is to war with trolls in heart and soul."
- "To write is to sit in judgement on oneself."
Reflection Questions
Henrik Johan Ibsen's quote speaks to the inner struggles we face when expressing ourselves through writing. Reflect on the following questions to explore how this idea resonates with you:
- How do you relate to the idea of waging a war with "trolls in heart and soul" in your own life?
- In what ways do you sit in judgement on yourself when you write or create?
- How does Ibsen's quote inspire you to approach self-criticism and the creative process differently?
- What strategies can you employ to navigate the internal conflicts that arise when expressing yourself through writing or other forms of creativity?
Similar quotes
“You played it with great seriousness. And it is not such an uncommon game. Do you know Ibsen's poem -- To live it to do battle with trolls in the vaults of the heart and brain. To write: that is to sit in judgement over one's self."”
“To live is - to war with trolls In the holds of the heart and mind”
“To live is to war with trolls.”
“How vain it is to sit down to write when you have not stood up to live.”
“Writing is utter solitude, the descent into the cold abyss of oneself.”