To shift the structure of a sentence alters the meaning of that sentence, as definitely and inflexibly as the position of a camera alters the meaning of the object photographed.
Joan DidionRead
Was there ever in anyone's life span a point free in time, devoid of memory, a night when choice was any more than the sum of all the choices gone before?
Interpretation
This quote reflects on how our past choices and memories shape our present decisions.
Joan Didion's quote contemplates the nature of time and memory, suggesting that every choice we make is influenced by our previous experiences and decisions. It raises the philosophical question of whether pure freedom of choice truly exists, or if it is always constrained by the weight of our past, indicating that our lives are essentially a continuum of our previous actions and thoughts.
In practice
This quote can be used in a philosophical discussion about the nature of decision-making.
To shift the structure of a sentence alters the meaning of that sentence, as definitely and inflexibly as the position of a camera alters the meaning of the object photographed.
The truth is, it's easier for me to write than talk... to express the state I'm in at any time.
Memories are what you no longer want to remember.
It was clear, for example, in 1988 that the political process had already become perilously remote from the electorate it was meant to represent.
I mean maybe I was holding all the aces, but what was the game?
Do not whine... Do not complain. Work harder. Spend more time alone.
What has the church gained if it is popular but there is no conviction, no repentance, no power?
Never take your obedience as the reason God blesses you; obedience is the outcome of being rightly related to God.
Hong Kong people say Hong Kong needs to preserve its uniqueness. I say Hong Kong's uniqueness is in its diversity, its tolerance of difference cultures... China does not want to see Hong Kong in decline. I have full confidence in its future.
Non-violence is not a quality to be evolved or expressed to order. It is an inward growth depending for sustenance upon intense individual effort.
Obviously you have to make a profit to put out a newspaper. I'm not an idiot. But when the margins are in excess of 25 per cent you're talking about greed.
In analysing history do not be too profound, for often the causes are quite superficial.
Subscribe for the occasional hand-picked quote. No noise.