He could only consider me as the living corpse of a would-be suicide, a person dead to shame, an idiot ghost

He could only consider me as the living corpse of a would-be suicide, a person dead to shame, an idiot ghost

Osamu Dazai, a renowned Japanese author known for his dark and introspective works, often explored themes of despair, alienation, and the struggle for meaning in life. In his novel "No Longer Human," Dazai delves deep into the psyche of a troubled protagonist who grapples with feelings of worthlessness and self-destructive tendencies. The quote "He could only consider me as the living corpse of a would-be suicide, a person dead to shame, an idiot ghost" encapsulates the protagonist's profound sense of alienation and disconnection from society.

The protagonist in "No Longer Human" is a young man named Yozo, who feels like an outsider in the world around him. He struggles to form meaningful connections with others and often resorts to self-destructive behavior as a way to cope with his inner turmoil. The quote reflects Yozo's perception of how others see him – as a mere shell of a person, devoid of life and purpose. He believes that he is seen as a failed suicide, someone who is already dead inside and incapable of feeling shame or remorse.

Yozo's self-image is deeply distorted, and he views himself as an "idiot ghost" haunting the world of the living. He feels disconnected from his own emotions and struggles to find a sense of identity or purpose in life. The quote highlights the protagonist's profound sense of despair and hopelessness, as he grapples with the existential void that consumes him.

Dazai's exploration of mental illness and existential angst in "No Longer Human" resonates with readers who have experienced similar feelings of alienation and despair. The quote serves as a poignant reminder of the devastating impact of mental illness on an individual's sense of self-worth and belonging. Through Yozo's story, Dazai sheds light on the dark corners of the human psyche and the profound sense of isolation that can accompany mental illness.