Quite by chance, I just came across an expression that sums up my innermost feelings about this wretched world in the language I take for my own: contra mundum.

Addendum I (August 7, 2016)

This expression does not mean only “against the world,” which is a rather obvious translation, but also “in defiance of all general opinion.” In addition, it is translated as “defying or opposing everyone else,” which is very to my liking. The expression is associated with Athanasius of Alexandria (c. 296-373), the twentieth bishop of the city and a Christian theologian of renown. He is remembered as a staunch defender of orthodoxy, and cherished for his courage to act alone in opposing heresy. Sadly, my first name does not have a Latin counterpart, but my family name definitely does: Bonus contra mundum. Splendid, just splendid!

Addendum II (April 13, 2017)

In addition, the expression stands for a maverick, a rebel and dissident, a lone-ranger, or a person who stands out of the crowd. Splendid, indeed. At first sight, it suits me fine. Nonetheless, the expression now strikes me as off the mark in my own case. First of all, it is a dash too contrary, opposing, and even conflicting. Perhaps more important, it focuses too much on the world out there. After my liberation early last year, the world has actually become increasingly irrelevant. It is there, all right, but it is of marginal importance in my own life. If I am against it, it is only in the sense that I do not feel that I am part and parcel of it. We are worlds apart, as it were. I only wonder how Athanasius of Alexandria would take this clarification of the haiku and the first addendum. Would he accept my hug, or would he turn his back to me? After all, I am hardly a Christian…