There is no feeling, except the extremes of fear and grief, that does not find relief in music.
The chief danger about Paris is that it is such a strong stimulant.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote highlights how Paris can inspire and energize individuals, suggesting both its allure and potential distractions.
T. S. Eliot points out that while Paris is a city filled with vibrant life and creativity, its intoxicating nature can be overwhelming. The 'strong stimulant' metaphor implies that the city has a profound effect on one's thoughts and emotions, potentially leading to both inspiration and chaos. This duality reflects the allure of artistic and cultural hubs, where the very essence of the place can heighten one's experiences, yet also distract from more grounded pursuits.
Themes
In practice
Example use cases
In a discussion about artistic inspiration, one might say, 'As T. S. Eliot noted, the chief danger about Paris is that it is such a strong stimulant.'
More from T. S. Eliot
All quotes βHalf of the harm that is done in this world is due to people who want to feel important. They don't mean to do harm. But the harm does not interest them.
I am an Anglo-Catholic in religion, a classicist in literature and a royalist in politics.
If you aren't in over your head, how do you know how tall you are?
For I have known them all already, known them allβ Have known the evenings, mornings, afternoons, I have measured out my life with coffee spoons.
In the faint moonlight, the grass is singing
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For those who have obtained unobstructed knowledge of Self, the world is seen merely as a bondage causing imagination.
It is not by great acts but by small failures that freedom dies. . . . Justice and liberty die quietly, because men first learn to ignore injustice and then no longer recognize it.
Heaven offers nothing that a mercenary soul can desire.
Grant that we may be one flock and one shepherd.
We are discreet sheep; we wait to see how the drove is going, and then go with the drove.