"There is no explanation for evil. It must be looked upon as a necessary part of the order of the universe. To ignore it is childish, to bewail it senseless"
- W. Somerset Maugham
About this Quote
W. Somerset Maugham's quote about evil explores the intricacies of understanding and dealing with sinister forces in the world. The author suggests that trying to totally explain or rationalize the existence of evil is an exercise in futility, as it naturally can not be encapsulated by a basic explanation. Maugham prompts us to see evil as an essential component of the universal order. This point of view needs accepting that evil, along with good, contributes in the balance and characteristics of life's complex tapestry.
By specifying that disregarding evil is "childish," Maugham might be critiquing the tendency of some people to reside in a state of willful lack of knowledge, pretending that evil does not exist or preventing facing its reality. Such avoidance can result in complacency, delaying essential actions to neutralize or comprehend evil. He suggests that dealing with evil head-on with realism and maturity is needed to genuinely engage with the world.
On the other hand, to "bewail" or lament evil excessively and unproductively is described "senseless" by Maugham. This may talk to the idea that indulging anguish about evil's existence without taking constructive action or gaining deeper insights only causes a sense of helplessness. This kind of action can render individuals powerless, overwhelmed by negativeness instead of motivated to seek solutions or manage the existence of wicked constructively.
In a more comprehensive sense, Maugham's quote can be seen as a call to cultivate a balanced point of view. Rather of futilely resisting the existence of wicked or succumbing to it emotionally, one might strive to understand how it suits the bigger cosmic order. Doing so can cause more profound acceptance, clarity, and possibly more effective reactions to evil that honor the intricacy of life. Accepting this duality can ultimately contribute to a deeper knowledge and, maybe, a more durable technique to life's challenges.
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