“On meurt deux Source fois, je le vois bien : > > Cesser d’aimer & d’être aimable, > > C’est une mort insupportable : > > Cesser de vivre, ce n’est rien.”
This poignant verse speaks to a profound human experience. It suggests that the end of love is a death more painful than the end of life itself. Many people attribute these powerful words to the German-Swiss novelist Hermann Hesse. However, the truth about its origin is quite different and reveals a fascinating story of misattribution.
While the sentiment might echo themes found in Hesse’s work, he did not write this quote. The verse is, in fact, French. Its true author is one of the most influential figures of the Enlightenment. Understanding the correct source not only gives credit where it is due but also deepens our appreciation for both writers’ unique philosophies.
The True Author: Voltaire
The elegant quatrain actually comes from the pen of François-Marie Arouet, better known as Voltaire. He was a celebrated French writer, historian, and philosopher. Voltaire included these lines in a letter he wrote in 1769. Specifically, he sent it to his dear friend, Marie de Vichy-Chamrond, the Marquise du Deffand.
At the time, both Voltaire and Madame du Deffand were in their seventies. They were contemplating old age, loss, and the nature of existence. The lines translate roughly to:
“We die twice, I see it well:
To cease to love and be lovable,
That is an unbearable death:
*To cease to live is nothing.”
In this context, the verse is not an abstract philosophical statement. Instead, it is a deeply personal reflection on the pains of aging. Voltaire suggests that losing the capacity for love and connection is the true tragedy. In contrast, the physical act of dying pales in comparison. This sentiment captures the essence of a life centered on human relationships and intellectual engagement, which were central to Enlightenment thinking.
Why is it Misattributed to Hesse?
So, how did a French verse from Voltaire become associated with Hermann Hesse? The answer likely lies in thematic resonance. Hesse’s novels, such as Siddhartha and Steppenwolf, explore profound themes of life, death, love, and the search for meaning. His characters often grapple with alienation and the struggle to connect with their true selves. Therefore, a quote about the unbearable death of love feels like something he could have written.
The internet plays a significant role in cementing these misattributions. Source Once a quote is shared on social media or quote websites with the wrong author, the error can multiply quickly. Over time, the incorrect attribution becomes widely accepted as fact.
The Real ‘Teachings of the Blood’ in Hesse’s Work
While Voltaire’s quote is not his, the topic title references a genuine concept from Hesse’s writing: the ‘teachings my blood whispers’. This idea is a cornerstone of his celebrated 1919 novel, Demian. The novel follows the spiritual and psychological development of its protagonist, Emil Sinclair. Throughout his journey, Sinclair learns to listen to his inner voice or intuition—the whispers of his blood.
One of the most famous passages from Demian encapsulates this idea perfectly. Sinclair reflects, “I wanted only to try to live in accord with the promptings which came from my true self. Why was that so very difficult?” This question is central to the novel’s conflict. Hesse argues that society, religion, and convention often suppress our authentic selves. Consequently, the journey to self-realization requires us to trust the innate wisdom that comes from within.
Demian and the Inner Voice
In Demian, the ‘blood’ symbolizes this deep, instinctual knowledge. It represents the unconscious, the true self that lies beneath the surface of the conscious mind. Hesse’s protagonist must learn to heed these internal ‘teachings’ over the external doctrines of the world. This is not a simple task. It involves confronting darkness, questioning morality, and ultimately embracing one’s own unique destiny.
Unlike Voltaire’s verse, which focuses on the external pain of lost love, Hesse’s concept is deeply internal. It is about the solitary, often difficult, quest for authenticity. For Hesse, the greatest tragedy is not losing another’s love, but failing to live in harmony with oneself. Therefore, while both writers touch upon profound aspects of the human condition, their focus differs significantly. Voltaire laments a social death, whereas Hesse warns against a spiritual one.
The Importance of Verifying Sources
This case of mistaken identity highlights the importance of verifying sources. Attributing a quote correctly honors the author’s legacy and preserves the original context. When we misattribute a quote, we risk misunderstanding its meaning and diluting the unique voice of two different authors. Voltaire’s wit and social commentary are distinct from Hesse’s introspective and spiritual explorations.
By tracing the French verse back to Voltaire’s letter, we gain a richer understanding of his thoughts on aging and love. Similarly, by identifying the ‘blood whispers’ concept within Demian, we can more accurately appreciate Hesse’s philosophy of self-discovery. In conclusion, taking a moment to check the source of a powerful quote is a small act that pays great respect to the world of literature.
Ultimately, while the beautiful French verse about dying twice does not belong to Hermann Hesse, the journey to discover its true origin leads us to a deeper appreciation for both him and Voltaire. It reminds us that every writer has a unique voice. Furthermore, it encourages us to engage more thoughtfully with the words that inspire us.