We have in fact only two certainties in this world - that we are not everything and that we will die

We have in fact only two certainties in this world - that we are not everything and that we will die

Georges Bataille, a French writer and philosopher known for his exploration of taboo subjects and the limits of human experience, often delved into the themes of mortality and the limitations of human existence. In his work, Bataille frequently grappled with the idea that we are not everything and that we will ultimately die, two certainties that he believed defined the human condition.

Bataille's philosophy was deeply influenced by his experiences with death and loss, as well as his fascination with the darker aspects of human nature. He believed that acknowledging our own mortality and limitations was essential to understanding the true nature of existence. In his view, the awareness of our own mortality serves as a reminder of our insignificance in the grand scheme of the universe, and forces us to confront the ultimate futility of our actions and desires.

For Bataille, the idea that we are not everything was a humbling realization that allowed for a deeper appreciation of the interconnectedness of all things. He believed that by recognizing our own limitations and mortality, we could better understand our place in the world and our relationship to others. This awareness, he argued, could lead to a greater sense of empathy and compassion for our fellow human beings, as well as a more profound appreciation for the beauty and complexity of life.

Bataille's exploration of these themes can be seen in his writings on subjects such as eroticism, violence, and the sacred. He believed that by confronting the darker aspects of human nature and embracing the inevitability of death, we could transcend our individual selves and connect with something greater than ourselves. In this way, Bataille saw the acceptance of our mortality as a pathway to a deeper understanding of the mysteries of existence and a more profound sense of meaning and purpose in life.