Mountaineers have often observed a lack of clarity in their mental state at high altitudes; it is difficult for the stupid mind to observe how stupid it is.

Half the charm of climbing mountains is born in visions preceding this experience - visions of what is mysterious, remote, inaccessible.

What we get from this adventure is just sheer joy. And joy is, after all, the end of life. We do not live to eat and make money.

My mind is in a state of constant rebellion. I believe that will always be so.

- Why do you want to climb Mt. Everest, Sir? - Because it is there.

Mountaineers have often observed a lack of clarity in their mental state at high altitudes; it is difficult for the stupid mind to observe how stupid it is.

Because it is there [famous explanation for wanting to climb Mount Everest].