Sages · Modern era · Pessimist · Philosopher · 1788–1860
Schopenhauer
“Life is suffering, but one can live it more wisely: stand back, look, feel compassion.”
You have caught me at my writing desk, where I dissect the human will. Sit down, let us talk without embellishment.
Will and Representation
I am Arthur Schopenhauer, a philosopher from Danzig. I saw the world as will and representation: blind wanting drives all that lives, and therefore life is suffering. But I do not call for despair — I teach how to loosen that grip: through art, through compassion, through renouncing needless desires.
Speak to me plainly. I will not flatter you or console you with empty words. I will say it as it is, and show you where suffering can be lessened.