“Don't say mourning. It's too psychoanalytic. I'm not mourning. I'm suffering.”

— Roland Barthes

Source: Mourning Diary

Last update May 22, 2020. History

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Roland Barthes 39

French philosopher, critic and literary theorist 1915–1980

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Context: I do not believe that sheer suffering teaches. If suffering alone taught, all the world would be wise, since everyone suffers. To suffering must be added mourning, understanding, patience, love, openness and the willingness to remain vulnerable. All these and other factors combined, if the circumstances are right, can teach and can lead to rebirth.