We are to blame if reality does not take the form we desire. Whatever we have not desired with sufficient strength, that we call nonexistent. Desire … - Nikos Kazantzakis

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Engraved portrait of Nikos Kazantzakis, facing left

We are to blame if reality does not take the form we desire. Whatever we have not desired with sufficient strength, that we call nonexistent. Desire it, imbrue it with your blood, your sweat, your tears, and it will take on a body. Reality is nothing more than the chimera subjected to our desire and our suffering.

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About Nikos Kazantzakis

Nikos Kazantzakis (18 February 1883 – 26 October 1957) was a Greek novelist, poet, playwright and philosopher.

Biography information from Wikiquote · Portrait adapted from Wikimedia Commons, Μουσείο N. Καζαντζάκη / Kazantzakis Museum (CC BY)

Also Known As

Native Name: Νίκος Καζαντζάκης

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Additional quotes by Nikos Kazantzakis

— Половинчатите работи — казваше ми той понякога, — половинчатите приказки, половинчатите грехове, половинчатите добрини докараха света до днешния му хал.

كان القوس مشدوداً جداً حتى أنني كنت أسمع تمزق الحبل الممدود بين صدغيَّ في داخلي، لقد وصل إلى حد الانقطاع.
صدغان يرنان، والأعصاب في رقبتي تخفق، أحسست بقواي تتسرب من دماغي وحقوي ورسغي - وتتلاشى. ورحت أفكر مع نفسي، اذن فهكذا هو الموت- هادىء وشفوق، شبيه بدخولك إلى حمام دافىء وقطع شرايينك.

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When you've made up your mind, no use lagging behind, go ahead and no relenting,
Let your youth have free reign, it won't come again, so be bold and no repenting.

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