Even in the valley of the shadow of death, two and two do not make six

Even in the valley of the shadow of death, two and two do not make six

Leo Tolstoy, one of the greatest novelists in history, was known for his profound insights into the human condition and his ability to capture the complexities of life in his works. One of his most famous quotes, "Even in the valley of the shadow of death, two and two do not make six," encapsulates Tolstoy's belief in the fundamental truths of the world and the importance of staying grounded in reality, even in the face of adversity.

This quote, taken from Tolstoy's novel "War and Peace," speaks to the idea that no matter how dire the circumstances may be, the laws of mathematics and logic remain constant. In the midst of chaos and despair, it is essential to hold onto these truths as a guiding light, a beacon of reason in a world that may seem irrational and unpredictable.

Tolstoy's own life was marked by moments of profound darkness and despair, from his struggles with depression and existential angst to his disillusionment with the aristocratic society in which he was born. Despite these challenges, Tolstoy remained committed to seeking out the truth and grappling with the complexities of human existence.