Famous quote by Vladimir Nabokov

"Complacency is a state of mind that exists only in retrospective: it has to be shattered before being ascertained"

About this Quote

Vladimir Nabokov's quote, "Complacency is a state of mind that exists just in retrospective: it has to be shattered before being established", suggests that complacency is a perilous and misleading mindset, frequently just recognized after it has actually been interfered with or caused unpredicted consequences. Complacency, in this sense, is associated with an incorrect complacency or fulfillment, where individuals or societies become material with their present conditions and stop to seek enhancement or change.

Nabokov's assertion that complacency "exists only in retrospective" implies that when people are in a state of complacency, they hardly ever recognize it. It is just after this contentment is interrupted-- maybe by failure, crisis, or the eruption of underlying problems-- that they become conscious of having actually been complacent. This retrospective realization highlights the human propensity to ignore stagnation and neglect warning signs when everything seems going smoothly.

The phrase "it has to be shattered before being determined" suggests that there is often a disconcerting event or awareness that breaks the illusion of fulfillment. This shattering awakening may be available in numerous types: a personal failure, a professional setback, or a societal upheaval that requires people or communities to challenge their previous inaction or overconfidence.

In a more comprehensive societal context, this quote can be viewed as a cautioning about the threats of becoming too comfy with the status quo. History often reveals that societies experiencing peace and prosperity can end up being contented, disregarding dangers or opportunities for enhancement, up until a crisis requires them to consider their negligence or inactiveness.

Nabokov's insight reminds us that complacency is not simply a passive state but a potentially dangerous one. Acknowledging and attending to complacency proactively-- without waiting for a disruptive event-- can cause continuous growth and enhancement. Therefore, self-awareness and a commitment to caution and development are essential to avoid being blindsided by the repercussions of ignored complacency.

About the Author

USA Flag This quote is from Vladimir Nabokov between April 22, 1899 and July 2, 1977. He/she was a famous Novelist from USA. The author also have 38 other quotes.
See more from Vladimir Nabokov

Similar Quotes

Shortlist

No items yet. Click "Add" on a Quote.