Albert Camus (1913–1960) was a renowned French-Algerian philosopher, writer and journalist whose work still inspires readers and thinkers around the world. Known for his clear, precise writing and deep exploration of human existence, Camus examined the tension between the search for meaning and an indifferent universe. He received the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1957 for his influential contributions, which include both novels and philosophical essays that challenge readers to face life honestly and courageously.
today’s thought
“If you keep searching for what happiness consists in you will never be happy. If you keep searching for the meaning of life you will never live.”
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Meaning behind the quote
This quote reflects a central theme in Camus’s philosophy: the danger of overanalyzing life. It suggests that a rigid definition of happiness or a persistent pursuit of a singular purpose can prevent us from truly living. Instead, Camus encourages embracing life as it comes, finding happiness and satisfaction in everyday experiences, and accepting that meaning is not always given but is created through our actions and choices.
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The life and work of Albert Camus
Born in Algeria, Camus grew up in an ordinary home but developed an early fascination with literature, philosophy, and the human condition. Throughout his career, he wrote novels and essays that explored the complexities of life, morality, and the human experience. Some of his most famous works include The Stranger (1942), which examines the indifferent nature of the universe; The Plague (1947), an allegorical story highlighting human resilience in the face of suffering; and The Myth of Sisyphus (1942), a philosophical essay that introduces and explains his concept absurd. His literary and philosophical contributions were recognized with the Nobel Prize for Literature in 1957, cementing his legacy as one of the most important thinkers of the 20th century.
What is absurdity?
Absurdism is the philosophical idea for which Camus is most famous. It explores the conflict between humanity’s inherent desire for meaning and the seeming indifference of the universe. According to absurdism, life has no predetermined purpose, and any attempt to find absolute meaning will inevitably collide with reality. Yet, rather than seeing this as discouraging, Camus saw it as liberating: by accepting the absurd, we can live authentically, find our purpose, and fully embrace life, even in the face of uncertainty and suffering.