Kierkegaard's Theatre Fire

In one of his books the Danish philosopher, Kierkegaard, tells a parable which has striking application to the world of to-day. The scene is a brilliantly lit theatre where a variety show is proceeding. Each turn is more fantastic than the last, and is applauded by a distinguished audience. Suddenly the manager comes forward.

He apologizes for the interruption, but the theatre is on fire, and he begs his patrons to leave in an orderly fashion. The audience think this is the most amusing turn of the evening, and cheer thunderously. The manager again implores them to leave the burning building, and he is again applauded to the echo. At last he can do no more.

The fire seizes the whole building and the enthusiastic audience with it. “And so,” concludes Kierkegaard, “will our age, I sometimes think, go down in fiery destruction to the applause of a crowded house of cheering spectators.”