Famous quote by Edward Dahlberg

"Men are mad most of their lives; few live sane, fewer die so. The acts of people are baffling unless we realize that their wits are disordered. Man is driven to justice by his lunacy"

About this Quote

Edward Dahlberg's quote explores the complexities and paradoxes of humanity, recommending that madness is an intrinsic part of the human condition. To interpret this quote, it is vital to consider both the explicit and implicit significances consisted of within his words.

The opening statement, "Men are mad most of their lives; couple of live sane, fewer pass away so", introduces the idea that insanity is pervasive in human presence. Dahlberg implies that madness is not a periodic departure from the standard, but rather a constant state for many. This can be comprehended as a review of societal standards and behaviors that, when closely examined, expose irrationality and turmoil beneath a veneer of sanity. The claim that few live or die sane recommends that attaining real rationality and clearness of mind is an exceptional state rather than a common one.

Dahlberg continues by explaining the actions of people as "baffling", which they are unless we acknowledge a collective disorder of the mind. This point of view lines up with the existential view that life is naturally unreasonable which human behavior typically shows this condition. Individuals perform acts that may seem mysterious or nonsensical unless taken a look at through the lens of inner turmoil and confusion. By acknowledging this fundamental insanity, one might foster understanding and compassion for others' behaviors, as they are signs of a wider human condition.

The final part of the quote, "Man is driven to justice by his lunacy", is especially intriguing. It recommends a paradoxical twist: the turmoil and insanity inherent in humanity perversely sustain the pursuit of justice. In this context, justice may be viewed as an effort to impose order where there is none, a response against the disorder within. This can be analyzed to suggest that the quest for justice is itself a recommendation of our fundamental madness and an effort to regulate and counterbalance it.

Therefore, Dahlberg's quote motivates reflection on the stress in between turmoil and order in human life, proposing that acknowledging our insanity is a path to understanding both ourselves and others.

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About the Author

USA Flag This quote is written / told by Edward Dahlberg between July 22, 1900 and February 27, 1977. He/she was a famous Novelist from USA. The author also have 20 other quotes.
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