Nietzsche's FOREWORD to "Twilight of Idolatry, or, How to Philosophize with a Hammer"

In the midst of a gloomy and exorbitantly consequential matter, to maintain one's cheerfulness is not a modest accomplishment: and yet, what could be more necessary than cheerfulness?

Nietzsche often emphasized the significance of cheerfulness or joy as a form of mental health and vitality that enables us to cope with the challenges and difficulties of life. His philosophy focused on overcoming nihilism and pessimistic worldviews to develop an affirming attitude towards life that accepts and embraces its complexity. In this sense, he argued that cheerfulness and joy are important aspects that can help us remain steadfast even in difficult times.

Nothing succeeds in which exuberant pride does not play its part. Only the excess of strength is the proof of strength. - The revaluation of all values: a question mark so dark, so immense, that it casts shadows upon the one who poses it - such a fateful mission obliges one to run into the sun every moment, to shake off a difficult, excessively difficult seriousness. Every means is fair for that, every "case" a stroke of luck. Especially war. War was always the great wisdom of overly inward minds that became too deep; even in the wound, healing potential still resides.

This passage suggests that confidence and a bit of pride are important for success. It talks about questioning traditional beliefs and being open to change. It also mentions that sometimes we need to be serious but also open to new ideas. It says we should use any means available to achieve our goals. Lastly, Nietzsche wrote about how war has been seen as a kind of wisdom for people who think deeply, and that even in difficult times, there can be healing and growth.

A maxim, the provenance of which I withhold for the sake of scholarly curiosity, has long been my motto: courage is nourished through injuries.

The motto "increscunt animi, virescit volnere virtus" is attributed to the Roman poet Virgil. It can be found in his epic poem "Aeneid," specifically in Book 12, line 435. It is spoken by the character Lausus during the battle between Aeneas and Turnus. A literal translation of the motto is "the spirits increase, courage grows with the wound," which conveys the idea that adversity can strengthen one's resolve and courage.

It is also healing, under more desirable circumstances, to investigate idols. There are more illusions than realities in the world: this is my "evil eye" toward this world, and also my "evil ear"... To pose inquiries in this realm with a hammer's strike, and perchance, to hear an answer in the echo of that famed hollow tone that speaks of swollen entrails* - what a delight this proves for one with ears beyond his own, for an aged psychologist and Pied Piper such as I, in whose company even the quietest secrets must reveal themselves.

This passage suggests that it can be therapeutic to question and challenge things we idolize or put on pedestals. Nietzsche viewed the world with skepticism, seeing more illusions than truths. He described the act of questioning these illusions as using a metaphorical hammer to break them down. Friedrich Nietzsche found joy in uncovering hidden truths, even those that were uncomfortable or unpleasant. This process was especially meaningful for someone like him, who was curious and perceptive, and had a deep understanding of human behavior.

*speaks of swollen entrails [or intestines/guts] is a metaphorical expression that suggests something about communicating (something), possibly in a visceral, intense, and/or profound manner.

This writing - as the title suggests - is primarily a relaxation, a sunny spot, a detour into the idleness of a psychologist. Perhaps also a new war? And are new idols being eavesdropped on?... This minor text is a major declaration of war; and as for the investigation of idols,* they are not temporal idols this time, but everlasting idols, which are struck by those who use hammers as if these idols were tuning forks,** - there are no older idols whatsoever, no more persuaded idols, no more inflated idols. And no more hollow ones... This doesn't stop them from being the most believed; some say, about the most distinguished, that they're not really idols...

This passage is saying that the writing is meant to be relaxing and enjoyable, like finding a sunny spot to relax in. It's also like taking a break from serious things and just letting your mind wander. However, it also suggests that there might be some conflict or disagreement, like a new kind of war. Nietzsche was talking about looking at new ideas or people who are admired or followed, maybe even secretly.

The text is like a big statement of disagreement or opposition. It talks about how the things people admire or look up to aren't just temporary, but they're seen as very important and long-lasting. Despite this, some people don't think these things are really worth admiring or following.

*investigation of idols: This refers to examining or questioning the things that people admire or worship.

**struck by those who use hammers as if these idols were tuning forks: This metaphor implies that the idols are being critically examined or challenged by people who are using (metaphorical) tools (like hammers) to test their worth or authenticity. The comparison to tuning forks suggests that these people are trying to find the true essence or resonance of the idols.

In essence, the passage is suggesting that the text is challenging long-standing beliefs or revered figures, and it's doing so in a significant and potentially confrontational way.

Turin, on the 30th

of September 1888,

On the day the book

of the revaluation

of all values

ended.

FRIEDRICH NIETZSCHE.