If you're not perfectly conscious of yourself, that self can be
If you're not perfectly conscious of yourself, that self can be tyrannical; in relationship to others, anyone can become a tyrant. That's why no one can be a Superman. You have to go beyond yourself with a 'third eye' - self-awareness - because the one thing you cannot flee is yourself.
In the vast and intricate theater of the human spirit, the self is both master and potential tyrant. Gao Xingjian speaks to this profound truth when he declares, “If you’re not perfectly conscious of yourself, that self can be tyrannical; in relationship to others, anyone can become a tyrant.” These words illuminate the peril inherent in ignorance of one’s own mind: without awareness, even the noblest soul may inflict suffering upon others, wielding power unconsciously and arrogantly. The ancients understood that self-knowledge is the first step toward virtue, for the heart untamed is the source of many woes.
To be conscious of oneself is to cultivate the light of the inner eye. Xingjian teaches that reflection, mindfulness, and self-awareness act as a mirror, revealing the shadows of ego, desire, and fear. Without this clarity, the self dominates, bending actions and relationships to its whims, and the human spirit risks becoming oppressive to those it touches. The ancients, from the philosophers of Greece to the sages of the East, often emphasized that mastery over the self precedes mastery over the world.
In the relationship with others, the danger is magnified. Any unexamined desire, prejudice, or impulse can lead to tyranny, for the self projects its unresolved struggles outward. Xingjian warns that no mortal can become a Superman, for perfection without self-knowledge is an illusion. True strength lies not in domination or control, but in the humble pursuit of insight and the cultivation of compassion that arises from awareness.
The path to liberation is the opening of a “third eye” — the deep, discerning lens of self-awareness. Xingjian declares that the one thing from which no one can flee is yourself. The eternal lesson of humanity is that external escape cannot resolve internal turbulence. Only through observation, introspection, and disciplined attention can the self be understood, guided, and harmonized with the wider world.
Thus, let this teaching endure: strive for perfect consciousness of yourself, cultivate the third eye of awareness, and approach all relationships with humility and discernment. In this vigilance lies the safeguard against tyranny, the path beyond mere ego, and the possibility of acting with wisdom and compassion. For the one truth unchangeable and inescapable is the self itself, and mastery begins within.
MNMy Nguyen
The idea that no one can be a 'Superman' because we cannot flee from ourselves is such a profound statement. It makes me think about how we often try to escape our own flaws, yet they will always be there unless we face them directly. How do we begin to cultivate this 'third eye' that Gao Xingjian talks about? How do we integrate self-awareness into our everyday lives without feeling overwhelmed by it?
HDHang Duong
I really resonate with Gao Xingjian’s insight about the self being a potential tyrant if we aren't fully conscious of it. It speaks to the challenges of managing our internal world while interacting with others. How do we balance our own needs and desires without becoming too self-centered? Can being aware of ourselves in the moment help us avoid pushing others away with our unconscious actions?
DNLe Do Ngoc
This quote from Gao Xingjian is a great reminder of the importance of self-awareness. The concept of the 'third eye' is fascinating, especially when applied to relationships. It suggests that we need to step outside ourselves to truly understand our impact on others. Do you think true self-awareness is something that can be developed over time, or is it an innate quality that some people naturally possess?
LHKim 3A Le Hoang
Gao Xingjian’s quote really makes me think about the dangers of losing self-awareness. The idea that if you're not conscious of yourself, you can become tyrannical in relationships is so powerful. It makes me wonder—how often do we let our egos take control without even realizing it? How can we stay aware of ourselves in such a fast-paced world where distractions pull us away from introspection?