Irvin D. Yalom Quotes

Absolute power, as we have always known, corrupts absolutely; it corrupts because it does not do the trick for the individual.

A sense of life meaning ensues but cannot be deliberately pursued: life meaning is always a derivative phenomenon that materializes when we have transcended ourselves.

None of my patients are really troubled by the idea that some part of what they say might be in a book in the future.

To the extent that one is responsible for one’s life, one is alone.

Live your life to the fullest; and then, and only then, die. Don’t leave any unlived life behind.

Since then mountains and torrential rivers and whatever separates and alienates have been cast between us, and even if we wanted to get together, we couldn’t. But when you now think of that little footbridge, words fail you and you sob and marvel.

Though the physicality of death destroys us, the idea of death may save us.

Just as you were about to step on it, I asked you “Do you want to cross the footbridge to me?” – Immediately you did not want to anymore; and when I asked you again you remained silent.