Hermann Hesse (1877-1962) was a German-Swiss novelist, poet, and painter whose literary works explored the inner recesses of the human soul. He is famous for his profound psychological understanding and spiritual literature that appealed to many readers searching for meaning in life beyond mere success. His literary works were also known to be characterised by an “inner journey” that challenged the conventions of society.Hesse wrote some of the biggest literary works, e.g., Siddhartha, Steppenwolf, and The Glass Bead Game, and they focus on the topics of individuality, enlightenment, and oneness of opposites. In 1946, Hesse was named a Nobel Prize in Literature with his stirring literary work that through a significant artistic breakthrough brought back to life old artistic concepts and a new tradition. His literary works have motivated several generations of readers.The quote, “Wisdom is nothing but a preparation of the soul, a capacity, a secret art of thinking, feeling and breathing thoughts of unity at every moment of life,” is attributed to Hermann Hesse and reflects the essence of his philosophical worldview.
Image Credit: Wikipedia
What this quote conveys
In this quote, Hesse gives a new definition of wisdom by saying it is much more than intelligence and knowledge. Wisdom is a “preparation of the soul,” meaning it is a process, not an end result. It means being prepared, ready to receive the lessons of life, both good and bad. It means self-awareness and patience, as understanding cannot be rushed or compelled. This preparation of the soul creates an inner world, allowing one to respond rather than react.Hesse further adds that wisdom is an art of secret thinking, feeling and breathing in thought of oneness. The most significant word in this quote is the word unity. By this, he implies that wise individuals perceive the relationship that others perceive as separating individuals, cultures, and even conflicting thoughts. Breathing thoughts of unity is the same as living in harmony with oneself and the world. It refers to the combination of reason and emotion, personal and society, action and contemplation. In this instance, wisdom is a living process, an awareness which is directed to any part of life. It does not happen during meditation or study but in real life, by use of compassion and understanding.The quote by Hermann Hesse challenges the reader to look at their concept of wisdom in a different way. Rather than seeing it as a form of intellectual superiority or accumulated knowledge, Hesse offers it as a kind of inner discipline, a state of being that is one of harmony and unity.In his words, Hesse urges us to live life in a thoughtful and meaningful way. In a world that is often torn apart by differences and distractions, his wisdom reminds us that the key to wisdom is unity, both within ourselves and with others. By preparing the soul and embracing this secret art, we can come closer to living a life of balance and clarity.
About the Author
