Quotessence
Home / Quotes / Quote by Franz Kafka

Quote by Franz Kafka

“Today I looked at a map of Vienna, for a moment it seemed incomprehensible to me that they would build such a huge city when you only need one room.”

Quote by Franz Kafka

Work

Letters to Milena

This book is a compilation of letters that reveal a deep and personal relationship between two individuals amidst the backdrop of significant historical events. The correspondence offers a glimpse into the complexities of human emotions and the passage of time. more

Author

Franz Kafka
Franz Kafka

Franz Kafka (July 3, 1883 - June 3, 1924) was an important German-language novelist of the 20th century, known for his unique literary style and profound philosophical thoughts. His works, often themed around loneliness, alienation, and existentialism, have had a profound impact on literature and philosophy. more

You May Also Like

“The angel had never really come to grips with the twentieth century, and didn't realize that it is perfectly possible to do ninety miles an hour down Oxford Street. You just arranged matters so that no one was in the way. And since everyone knew that it was impossible to do ninety miles an hour down Oxford Street, no one noticed.”

“Sometimes when I meet old friends, it reminds me how quickly time passes. And it makes me wonder if we've utilized our time properly or not. Proper utilization of time is so important. While we have this body, and especially this amazing human brain, I think every minute is something precious. Our day-to-day existence is very much alive with hope, although there is no guarantee of our future. There is no guarantee that tomorrow at this time we will be here. But we are working for that purely on the basis of hope. So, we need to make the best use of our time. I believe that the proper utilization of time is this: if you can, serve other people, other sentient beings. If not, at least refrain from harming them. I think that is the whole basis of my philosophy. So, let us reflect what is truly of value in life, what gives meaning to our lives, and set our priorities on the basis of that. The purpose of our life needs to be positive. We weren't born with the purpose of causing trouble, harming others. For our life to be of value, I think we must develop basic good human qualities—warmth, kindness, compassion. Then our life becomes meaningful and more peaceful—happier.”

“Charlie put his hand on my shoulder and smiled. ‘You’re a rum bastard, Paddy.’ ‘Them,’ said I, ‘are the truest words you ever said.’ We walked over some more sand heaps and, at last, 538 Jones stood on the top, looking down at the sea, as if he’d made it himself. We stood beside him and looked down at the sun on the water. ‘Me life on you, Jonesy,’ said I. ‘You’re like Stout Cortez when with eagle eyes, he stared at the Pacific—and all his men looked at each other with a wild surmise, silent, upon a peak in Darien. By Jasus, this equals any fughing Darien.”