I think of literature - she wrote - as a vast country to the far borders of which I am journeying but cannot possibly reach. And I have started too late. I will never catch up.
This poignant reflection captures the endless voyage that literature embodies. It evokes the sense of an expansive, uncharted territory—an ever-growing universe of stories, ideas, and emotions—that beckons the reader and writer alike. The metaphor of a vast country implies both beauty and a boundless horizon, representing the limitless potential of literary exploration. The narrator's admission of starting too late reveals a bittersweet awareness of time's relentless march. It underscores a common human sentiment: feeling perpetually behind in our pursuit of knowledge or fulfillment, yet still compelled to explore regardless. The notion of 'never catching up' resonates deeply, implying both a humility in recognizing our finite capacity and an optimistic persistence in engaging with something larger than ourselves. This sentiment is particularly relevant in the context of literature, which allows us to traverse worlds, eras, and perspectives beyond our immediate experience. Every book read is like visiting a new border in the literary country, each offering insights and growth. The quote invites reflection on the nature of lifelong learning—how the journey is more important than the destination. It encourages us to embrace the process of exploration, knowing that the sense of distance traveled may always fall short of the expanse of what remains. Overall, this quote beautifully captures the universal human experience of striving towards understanding, acknowledging limitations yet persevering in pursuit of knowledge and enlightenment, much like the ongoing voyage through the limitless landscape of literature.
