A man is the history of his breaths and thoughts, acts, atoms and wounds, love, indifference and dislike; also of his race and nation, the soil that fed him and his forebears, the stones and sands of his familiar places, long-silenced battles and struggles of conscience, of the smiles of girls and the slow utterance of old women, of accidents and the gradual action of inexorable law, of all this and something else too, a single flame which in every way obeys the laws that pertain to Fire itself, and yet is lit and put out from one moment to the next, and can never be relumed in the whole waste of time to come.
The quote reflects on the complexity of a man's identity, shaped by his thoughts, experiences, and emotions, as well as his heritage and environment. It emphasizes that a person is not just defined by their individual attributes but also by their connections to their history, culture, and the places around them. The struggles and joys of life influence who we are, from the legacies of our ancestors to the fleeting moments of connection with others.
Additionally, the quote introduces the idea of an intangible essence within each individual, likening it to a flame that is both governed by the laws of nature and uniquely personal. This flame symbolizes the transient nature of life and existence, highlighting that while one may be shaped by their past, the core of their being is ephemeral, igniting and extinguishing in the vast expanse of time. It's a poignant reminder of the delicate balance between the tangible and the ephemeral aspects of identity.
Rate the Quote
User Reviews
Other quotes in book quote
All the things you can talk about in anyone's work are the things that are least important.
Race of Cain, ascend to heaven, And cast God down upon the earth!
