Oscar Wilde: 'This suspense is terrible. I hope it will last.'

This suspense is terrible. I hope it will last.

In Oscar Wilde's quote, "This suspense is terrible. I hope it will last," we glimpse a snippet of the author's introspective nature and his ability to find beauty even in the midst of uncertainty. The straightforward meaning of the quote is quite simple: Wilde is expressing his penchant for suspense and the thrill it brings to his life. However, the underlying importance of this quote lies in its reflection of human nature and our natural inclination towards the unknown. It sparks a philosophical concept that delves into the paradoxical relationship between comfort and excitement, stability and change.Suspense is a captivating sensation that engulfs us in anticipation, taking us on an exhilarating journey as we wait for something to unfold. It may manifest when reading a gripping novel, watching an intense film, or even experiencing the twists and turns of our own lives. Wilde's declaration of the "terrible" nature of suspense stands out as an interesting paradox. Normally, "terrible" elicits negative connotations, implying fear or anxiety. Yet, in Wilde's case, this terrible suspense brings him joy, highlighting the allure and fascination that lies within unknown outcomes.To comprehend the significance of Wilde's perspective, we can consider the contrast between this suspense and its eventual resolution. While the resolution may provide closure and certainty, it also marks the end of suspense, removing the tingling excitement that accompanies the unknown. In this sense, the longing for suspense to last suggests a profound appreciation for the process itself, rather than merely desiring the outcome.This concept can be related to a philosophical theory known as "existentialism." It explores the idea that human existence is defined through the experiences and choices we make, rather than being shaped entirely by external factors. According to existentialism, life's meaning is constructed through individual awareness, subjective interpretation, and personal responsibility. In this light, Wilde's love for suspense can be seen as a celebration of the journey rather than the destination.Existentialism emphasizes the importance of embracing uncertainty and ambiguity as catalysts for personal growth and self-discovery. It suggests that by surrendering to the unknown, we open ourselves up to new possibilities, challenge familiar notions, and ultimately find fulfillment in the process. Wilde's hope for the suspense to last reflects this existential philosophy, as he finds inspiration and delight in embracing the unknown, rather than seeking an immediate resolution.Applying this perspective to our own lives, we might ask ourselves: Why do we rush through the suspenseful moments, craving immediate answers or closure? Could it be that we often neglect the beauty and potential for growth embedded within the unknown? By adopting Wilde's mindset, we may find a deeper appreciation for the suspenseful pauses in our lives, whether they be a poignant moment awaiting an important decision, a thrilling plot twist in a novel, or an unforeseen turn in our personal journey.In essence, Wilde's quote invites us to reflect on the paradoxical relationship between our yearning for stability and the exhilaration found in the unknown. It encourages a shift in perception, urging us to embrace the suspenseful moments that permeate our lives and harness the excitement they bring. So perhaps, just like Wilde, we should savor the terrible suspense and hope for its endurance, as it is within these moments that our profound human nature flourishes.