Pleasure versus Pain

De Quincey contrasts the initial 'divine pleasures' of opium—ecstasy, serenity, and heightened intellect—with the subsequent 'pains of opium,' including physical agony, nightmares, and mental torpor.

The chapter contrasts the excruciating pain of rheumatism with the 'divine enjoyment' and 'abyss of divine enjoyment' brought by opium, highlighting the dual nature of the drug.

He confesses his inability to face misery and his hankering after happiness, justifying his opium use as a means to avoid pain.

Discussion of the principle 'reculer pour mieux sauter' and how anger helps bear sufferings, illustrating the trade-off between pleasure and pain.