Meaning: The quote "My mission is to kill time, and time's to kill me in its turn. How comfortable one is among murderers" is a thought-provoking and introspective statement made by the Romanian philosopher and essayist, Emile Cioran. Born in 1911, Cioran is known for his existentialist and nihilistic views, delving into the complexities of human existence and the nature of life itself. This particular quote encapsulates Cioran's philosophical musings on the concept of time and its impact on human life.

In this quote, Cioran presents a paradoxical relationship between himself and time, portraying time as both an adversary and a companion. The notion of "killing time" is often used colloquially to describe the act of passing time aimlessly or engaging in activities to occupy oneself without a specific purpose. However, Cioran's use of this phrase suggests a deeper philosophical interpretation. He sees his mission as an active pursuit to defy the passive nature of time, suggesting a desire to challenge and overcome the constraints imposed by the passage of time.

At the same time, Cioran acknowledges the inevitability of time's eventual triumph over human existence. The phrase "time's to kill me in its turn" conveys a sense of resignation to the ultimate power of time, highlighting the transient and fragile nature of human life in the face of the relentless march of time. This acknowledgment of mortality and the fleeting nature of human existence is a recurrent theme in Cioran's philosophical works.

The juxtaposition of these contrasting perspectives on time reflects Cioran's complex relationship with existence and his preoccupation with the human condition. The phrase "How comfortable one is among murderers" further emphasizes the paradoxical nature of this relationship. Here, Cioran employs a metaphorical language to liken time to a murderer, suggesting that despite the looming threat of time's inexorable passage, there is a sense of familiarity and even acceptance in confronting this existential threat.

Cioran's philosophical stance on the concept of time aligns with existentialist and nihilistic themes that permeate his body of work. His exploration of the human experience often delves into the absurdity of existence, the futility of human endeavors, and the inevitability of suffering and mortality. Through his writings, Cioran invites readers to confront the unsettling truths about life and to grapple with the existential angst that arises from contemplating the passage of time and the transience of human existence.

In conclusion, Emile Cioran's quote "My mission is to kill time, and time's to kill me in its turn. How comfortable one is among murderers" encapsulates his philosophical contemplations on time, mortality, and the human experience. Through this quote, Cioran invites us to ponder the paradoxical nature of our relationship with time, acknowledging both our attempts to defy its constraints and our ultimate vulnerability to its relentless passage. This thought-provoking statement serves as a poignant reflection of Cioran's existentialist worldview and his profound insights into the complexities of human existence.