In its simplest form, this quote suggests that it might be more beneficial to live a life full of questions rather than trying to find definitive answers through abstract contemplation. It implies that engaging with the complexities and uncertainties of life can yield more profound insights and growth than seeking clear-cut resolutions.
Delving deeper into the meaning, Coetzee’s statement encourages readers to embrace ambiguity and uncertainty as integral parts of existence. By living out questions, one engages actively with the world around them, experiencing it in a richer and more nuanced way. This approach acknowledges that life is inherently complex and may not always lend itself to neat, conclusive answers. Instead of striving for definitive resolutions, Coetzee advocates for an ongoing process of exploration and reflection, where the journey itself becomes as important—or even more so—than any final destination.
J.M. Coetzee is a renowned South African novelist, essayist, and literary critic who has won numerous awards, including the Nobel Prize in Literature in 2003. His work often explores themes of moral complexity, political oppression, and the human condition through intricate narratives that challenge readers to think deeply about their own lives and societies.
