“What, I wondered, did he mean by “society”? The plural of human beings? Where was the substance of this thing called “society”? I had spent my whole life thinkng that society must certainly be something powerful, harsh and severe, but to hear Horiki talk made the words “Don’t you mean yourself?” come to the tip of my tongue. But I held the words back, reluctant to anger him.‘Society won’t stand for it.’‘It’s not society. You’re the one who won’t stand for it - right?’‘If you do such a thing society will make you suffer for it’‘It’s not society. It’s you, isn’t it?’‘Before you know it, you’ll be ostracized by society.’‘It’s not society. You’re going to do the ostracizing, aren’t you?’Words, words of every kind went flitting through my head. “Know thy particular fearsomeness, thy knavery, cunning and witchcraft!” What I said, however, as I wiped the perspiration from my face with a handkerchief was merely, “You’ve put me in a cold sweat!” I smiled.From then on, however, I came to hold, almost as a philosophical conviction, the belief: What is society but an individual?”
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Quote Analysis:
In this thought-provoking quote from Osamu Dazai's work, the protagonist questions the concept of "society" and its impact on individuals. The protagonist reflects on the idea that society is often used as a scapegoat for personal responsibility and actions. The dialogue with Horiki challenges the notion of society as an external force, highlighting the role of individual agency in shaping one's experiences. This introspective moment leads the protagonist to a profound realization that society is ultimately made up of individuals, each with their own fears, motivations, and biases. Through this exploration, Dazai prompts readers to consider the complex interplay between society and the self, questioning the nature of social influence and personal accountability.
Modern Relevance
In this excerpt from Osamu Dazai's work, the protagonist questions the concept of "society" and ultimately comes to the realization that society is made up of individuals. This idea is still relevant today as we navigate issues of conformity, collective thinking, and individuality in a rapidly changing world. The excerpt challenges us to consider the role we play in shaping society and the impact of our own actions and beliefs.
Example of Usage
In the passage provided by Osamu Dazai, the protagonist questions the concept of "society" and reflects on the idea that society is merely a collection of individuals. The protagonist's internal dialogue challenges the notion of societal norms and expectations, ultimately arriving at the conclusion that society is a reflection of the individuals within it. This passage highlights the complex relationship between individuals and the larger societal structures they navigate.
Reflection Questions
This excerpt from Osamu Dazai's work raises important questions about the concept of society and the role of the individual within it. As you reflect on these ideas, consider the following questions:
- How do you define "society" based on your own experiences and observations?
- Do you agree with the idea that society is ultimately comprised of individuals and their actions?
- In what ways do societal norms and expectations influence your decisions and behavior?
- Have you ever felt pressured to conform to societal standards, even if they conflicted with your personal beliefs?
- How does the concept of individual agency and responsibility relate to the idea of society as described in the passage?
Similar quotes
“What did he mean by "society"? The plural of human beings?”
“Unhappiness. There are all kinds of unhappy people in the world. I suppose it would be no exaggeration to say that the world is composed entirely of unhappy people. But those people can fight their unhappiness with society fairly and squarly, and society for its part easily understands and sympathizes with such struggles. My unhappiness stemmed entirely from my own vices, and I had no way of fighting anybody.”
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“People talk of “social outcasts.” The words apparently denote the miserable losers of the world, the vicious ones, but I feel as though I have been a “social outcast” from the moment I was born. If ever I meet someone society has designated as an outcast, I invariably feel affection for him, an emotion which carries me away in melting tenderness.”
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