Franz Kafka: 'By believing passionately in something that still does not exist, we create it. The nonexistent is whatever we have not sufficiently desired.'

By believing passionately in something that still does not exist, we create it. The nonexistent is whatever we have not sufficiently desired.

In his thought-provoking quote, Franz Kafka asserts the transformative power of believing in something that is yet to come into existence. By passionately holding onto a vision or idea and nurturing a strong desire for its realization, we possess the ability to bring it to life. Kafka suggests that the nonexistent is simply a product of our insufficient desires, implying that our degree of longing directly influences the emergence or non-existence of things. This statement carries a profound message about the role of our beliefs and desires in shaping the world around us.At first glance, this quote may appear to encompass a rather straightforward message – that our beliefs and desires can manifest our dreams and aspirations. However, delving deeper into this concept reveals an unexpected philosophical perspective that adds even more fascination to Kafka's words. The underlying philosophy lies in the interplay between our subjective experiences and the objective reality we perceive.Consider for a moment the nature of reality and how it is constructed. Objectively, reality exists independent of our beliefs or desires. It is a tangible and objective entity governed by physical laws. However, subjectively, our perception of reality is heavily influenced by our beliefs, desires, and interpretations. Our minds construct a personal reality that may differ from the objective reality.Kafka's quote shines light on this dichotomy, suggesting that our beliefs and desires can shape our personal reality in such a way that it mirrors our aspirations. It implies that our desires create a lens through which we perceive and interact with the world. This lens may focus our attention on opportunities and possibilities that align with our dreams, making them more likely to materialize. In essence, our beliefs and desires act as a filter, coloring our experiences and determining what we interpret as nonexistent or within reach.To illustrate this concept further, consider the story of two individuals, each aspiring to become successful writers. The first person simply dreams about becoming a writer, lacks a passionate belief in their abilities, and does not actively take steps toward their goal. Consequently, opportunities for growth and success may easily pass them by, as they perceive their dreams to be nonexistent.On the other hand, the second person believes wholeheartedly in their writing skills, placing great importance on their desire to become a writer. They immerse themselves in their craft, dedicating time and effort to honing their skills, actively seeking publishing opportunities, and networking with other writers. Their belief in their talent and aspirations shapes their reality, gradually manifesting into a successful writing career.While this philosophical concept may seem speculative and intangible, it holds a significant guiding principle within it. It reminds us of the power within our own minds to shape our experiences and bring forth the things we deeply desire. It invites us to reflect upon the intensity of our beliefs and desires and encourages us to nurture them, for they hold the key to creating the nonexistent.In conclusion, Franz Kafka's quote provides a profound insight into the potential power of our beliefs and desires. It emphasizes that by passionately believing in something that is yet to exist, we hold the capability to bring it into being. Moreover, it introduces a compelling philosophical perspective that unveils the influence of our subjective experiences on the construction of reality. By acknowledging and harnessing this influence, we can actively shape our personal realities and materialize our aspirations. Kafka's words serve as a reminder of the profound connection between our desires and the world we perceive, urging us to nurture our beliefs and desires in order to create a reality that mirrors our deepest longings.