When she first came here she used to think there was somebody up in those big buildings who knows what's going on here. They would never come down and talk to her. After a while she found out nobody knows what's going on.

When she first came here she used to think there was somebody up in those big buildings who knows what's going on here. They would never come down and talk to her. After a while she found out nobody knows what's going on.

📖 Robert M. Pirsig

🌍 American  |  👨‍💼 Philosopher

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This quote offers a poignant reflection on human perception and the often false assumptions we make about authority and knowledge. Initially, the woman perceives the towering buildings and the figures within as symbols of control and understanding—perhaps believing that the knowledge of what’s truly happening lies within those structures, guarded by those high above. Her expectation that officials or gatekeepers are the custodians of truth points to a universal desire for clarity and reassurance from those in positions of power. However, the revelation that nobody possesses such overarching knowledge exposes a profound truth about the human condition: often, those in power or even the guardians of information are just as uncertain or disconnected as the rest of us. This realization can be disillusioning but also freeing, as it suggests that the mysteries and uncertainties of life are shared universally, not confined to the realm of the elite or the powerful. It also underscores the importance of personal agency and the acknowledgment of our individual ignorance in navigating complex social landscapes. The quote subtly hints at the illusion of control often projected by hierarchical structures, and how breaking down these illusions fosters a more honest understanding of our collective reality. It prompts us to accept uncertainty, rather than seek comfort in false certainties offered from above, encouraging humility and openness as we confront life's unpredictable nature.

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August 15, 2025

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