Dürrenmatt was deeply influenced by philosophy, which was his field of studies at the University of Bern. The present article shows some aspects of this influence, which includes certain epistemological aspects (Plato and Kant) to which he remained faithful throughout his life, but also a view of writing which centers on indirect communication, following Kierkegaard’s Postscript to the Philosophical Fragments. Dürrenmatt enjoyed drawing on fables and ancient myths in order to let their relevance emerge, against any systematizing and dogmatizing aim, and thus against any pretense at grasping truth as such.