Souls cross ages like clouds cross skies, and though a cloud's shape nor hue nor size don't stay the same, it's still a cloud and so is a soul.
This evocative quote from Cloud Atlas by David Mitchell presents a profound analogy between the transient nature of clouds and the essence of souls. The imagery suggests that, just as clouds constantly drift across the sky, change shape, and fade away, human souls too are in a perpetual state of flux, moving through different lifetimes and eras. Despite the changes in form, appearance, or circumstances, the core of what a cloud is remains; similarly, a soul retains a fundamental identity amid endless transformations.
Reflecting on this, one can consider the concept of continuity amidst change. Life is fleeting, and everything around us including our own perceptions and experiences morph over time. Yet, there is an inherent sameness— a persistent essence that underpins our existence. This idea can be comforting, hinting at an enduring spirit or core that persists even through turmoil, aging, and external upheavals.
It also prompts us to think about the interconnectedness of all beings and the transient journey of existence. Just as clouds are born, change, and eventually disperse, so do our lives follow a cycle of beginnings, growth, and endings. Recognizing the soul's impermanence alongside its ongoing evolution can foster a sense of humility and awe.
Ultimately, the quote offers a poetic perspective on mortality and immortality—life's fragile yet resilient nature. The enduring analogy of clouds encourages us to embrace change as a fundamental aspect of existence, reminding us that while appearances may shift, the essence remains, beautifully mysterious and eternal.
