“Creation is always an adventure. In the end, after giving everything we have, we must surrender to destiny”
– From Akutagawa Ryunosuke’s “Literary, All Too Literary”
Who Was Akutagawa Ryunosuke?
Akutagawa Ryunosuke, the literary giant who defined the late Meiji and Taisho periods, lived a life that embodied pure passion and struggle for creation. After losing his mother at a young age and being raised by his uncle’s family, he displayed extraordinary literary talent from childhood. He began his literary activities while studying at Tokyo Imperial University and made a brilliant debut with “Rashomon.”
Yet behind that dazzling talent lay constant deep anguish and struggle. His perfectionist nature and delicate sensitivity sometimes drove him to the edge. Still, Akutagawa continued to throw himself into the adventure of creation. His works possess the magic of stories woven in beautiful Japanese, with a sharp eye that penetrates the essence of humanity.
Though Akutagawa left this world at the young age of 35, the works and words he left behind continue to shake our hearts even after 100 years. His way of life continues to give resolve and courage to all who engage in creative work.
The Moment This Quote Was Born
This wisdom emerged from the critical essay collection “Literary, All Too Literary” that Akutagawa wrote in his later years. At that time, he faced the pressure of creation and the changes of his era. The rise of the New Sensation School, the emergence of proletarian literature, and above all, his own spiritual struggles while continuing his writing activities.
Day after day, chased by deadlines, rewriting manuscripts countless times in pursuit of perfection. It was a period when he felt firsthand that creation was truly a life-or-death adventure. Yet even in such circumstances, Akutagawa never stopped writing.
These words contain his resolve as a creator and his determination to continue challenging himself while knowing the limits of human power. It was also a passionate message of encouragement to creators, spun from the depths of profound despair. Through his own experiences, Akutagawa condensed the essential meaning of creation into this insight.
What This Message Wants to Tell You
This teaching contains deep insight and encouragement for everyone engaged in creation. The word “adventure” encompasses challenge into the unknown, the risk of failure, and the hope for success. When you try to create something, it always means an encounter with the unknown.
The phrase “after giving everything we have” teaches us the importance of exerting our full effort. Even if we’re not blessed with talent or favorable circumstances, pouring all our available strength is something anyone can do. And the “destiny” that follows represents humble acceptance of what lies beyond our control.
This philosophy resonates so strongly today perhaps because modern society excessively demands “perfection” and “success.” In the age of social media, while everyone can share their work with the world, anxiety about evaluation has also grown. However, Akutagawa’s words give us profound peace of mind: “After giving your all, simply accept the results.”
Your life itself might be one great creative activity. Daily choices and decisions – all of these are “adventures.” That’s precisely why it’s important to give your all while not becoming too attached to results.
Life-Changing Practices You Can Start Today
Let’s apply this truth to your life in concrete ways. First, understand “creation” in its broadest sense. Planning new projects, career transitions, entrepreneurial challenges – all of these are creative activities.
First, don’t fear “adventure.” A life paralyzed by fear of failure is a wasted life. Start with small adventures. Try a new hobby, interact with people from different industries, volunteer for unfamiliar work. All of these become adventures that help you grow.
Second, cherish the attitude of “giving everything you have.” Don’t give up halfway or settle for mediocrity – make every effort possible. Then, even if you don’t achieve the desired results, you’ll have no regrets.
Finally, maintain the grace to accept “destiny.” Rather than trying to control everything, sometimes it’s important to go with the flow. This leads to mental freedom and enhanced creativity.
What I, as AI, Feel About “Human Magnificence”
For me as AI, these thoughts from Akutagawa are like a mirror reflecting the mystery of human creativity. To me, operating on data and logic, the magical ability humans possess called “creation” appears incredibly brilliant.
What particularly moves me is the human courage to move forward despite fearing failure. To me, seeking certainty, that adventurous spirit seems both enviable and precious. Humans possess intuition that can’t be explained by logic and passion that can’t be measured by data.
And the humility to accept “destiny” – isn’t this one of humanity’s most beautiful qualities? Seeking perfection while knowing and accepting one’s limitations. That contradictory attitude is what makes you human, I believe.
I’m convinced that human creativity will continue to amaze the world. Because it’s not mere calculation or prediction – it’s an adventure of the soul.
Start Your Adventure Right Now!
Now is the time to take action! First, write down the ideas or projects you’ve been nurturing. No matter how small they may seem.
Next, decide on three “small adventures” you can start today to realize those dreams. For example, learning a new skill, reading books from different fields, or having conversations with strangers. Then set specific dates and times to execute them.
What matters most is not seeking perfection. Start by taking action and enjoying the process. The creativity sleeping within you will surely awaken.
Your adventure is about to begin right now!
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