It’s been taking me a long time to read through “Thus Spake Zarathustra”. I pick it up in bits and pieces on my phone. It’s hard to read partially due to the heavy concepts and partially due to the antiquated language. I’ve realized I have some pretty fundamental disagreements with Nietzche, but it’s still interesting to see how he thinks. And every now and then a particular point hits home, usually his critiques of the church.
I’ve been thinking a lot lately about how I’ve over-optimized for comfort, so this one really resonated with me and felt convicting.
To small virtues would they fain lure and laud me; to the ticktack of small happiness would they fain persuade my foot.
I pass through this people and keep mine eyes open; they have become SMALLER, and ever become smaller:—THE REASON THEREOF IS THEIR DOCTRINE OF HAPPINESS AND VIRTUE.
For they are moderate also in virtue,—because they want comfort. With comfort, however, moderate virtue only is compatible.