There is no beyond, there is only here, the infinitely small, infinitely great and utterly demanding present

There is no beyond, there is only here, the infinitely small, infinitely great and utterly demanding present

Iris Murdoch, the renowned British philosopher and novelist, was known for her deep exploration of the complexities of human existence and the nature of reality. In her works, Murdoch often delved into the idea of the present moment as the only true reality, emphasizing the importance of living fully in the here and now. The quote, “There is no beyond, there is only here, the infinitely small, infinitely great and utterly demanding present,” encapsulates Murdoch’s belief in the power and significance of the present moment.

For Murdoch, the present moment is not just a fleeting instant in time, but a profound and all-encompassing reality that demands our full attention and engagement. She believed that by fully immersing ourselves in the present, we can experience the richness and depth of life in all its complexity. In her view, the present is not just a point in time, but a dynamic and ever-changing reality that is constantly unfolding before us.

Murdoch’s philosophy of the present moment is deeply rooted in her belief in the interconnectedness of all things. She saw the present as a nexus of past, present, and future, where all moments are interconnected and influence each other in profound ways. By embracing the present moment, Murdoch believed that we can tap into this interconnected web of existence and experience a deeper sense of connection to the world around us.

Furthermore, Murdoch’s emphasis on the present moment also speaks to her belief in the importance of moral responsibility and ethical action. She believed that by fully engaging with the present moment, we can better understand our own motivations and desires, and act in ways that are in alignment with our true selves. By living in the present, Murdoch believed that we can cultivate a sense of moral clarity and integrity that guides our actions and decisions.