Sickness, insanity and death were the angels that surrounded my cradle and they have followed me throughout my life.

The quote "Sickness, insanity and death were the angels that surrounded my cradle and they have followed me throughout my life" by Edvard Munch reflects the profound suffering and darkness that Munch experienced throughout his life. Munch, best known for his painting The Scream, often explored themes of anxiety, mental illness, and mortality in his work. In this quote, he personifies sickness, insanity, and death as the angels that have constantly been present in his life, implying that these afflictions have not only shaped his experience but have followed him like an inevitable and ever-present force.

Munch’s use of the word "angels" is ironic, as angels are typically seen as benevolent, protective figures. In contrast, Munch’s angels represent the opposite—suffering and tragedy—that have overshadowed his existence. His life was marked by personal loss, including the early death of his mother and the mental illness of his father and sister, both of which deeply affected his emotional and psychological state. The quote suggests that sickness and death were constant companions, influencing both his emotional world and his creative work.

The origin of this quote lies in the life of Edvard Munch, a Norwegian painter and printmaker who grappled with personal tragedy and mental anguish. His works often depict existential fear, isolation, and the fragility of life. This quote reflects his understanding of how personal suffering can be inescapable, and how the weight of death and mental illness can shape a person’s identity and worldview. It also sheds light on his deep connection to the darker aspects of human existence, which were reflected in his art.

Ultimately, Munch’s quote speaks to the inescapable nature of suffering and death in life. It paints a picture of how sickness, both physical and mental, can shadow one’s existence, and how these afflictions may define an individual's perspective on life. Through his art and this personal reflection, Munch emphasizes the lasting impact of personal tragedy and emotional pain, themes that resonate deeply in his legacy as an artist.