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
But the fact of it was that I liked it out there, a ruin devoid of human vanities, clean of human illusions, an empty place reclaimed by the weather where a woman plays an organ to stop the wind's whining and an old man plays ball with a dog named Duke. I could tell you that I came back because I had promises to keep, but maybe it was because nobody asked me to stay.
Interpretation
The quote reflects a deep appreciation for nature and simple joys, contrasted with human complexities.
In this quote, Joan Didion expresses a profound connection to a seemingly desolate yet serene landscape, free from the superficial distractions of society. The imagery of a woman playing an organ and an old man with his dog conveys a sense of peace and fulfillment found in nature and uncomplicated relationships, highlighting the allure of retreating from life's expectations and the weight of promises.
In practice
This quote can be used in a speech about the importance of connecting with nature.
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.
Not much longer shall we have time for reading lessons of the past. An inexorable present calls us to the defense of a great future.
Only faith in Christ gives rise to a culture contrary to egotism and death.
There is no line between the 'real world' and 'world of myth and symbol.' Objects, sensations, hit with the impact of hallucination.
Humans aren't as good as we should be in our capacity to empathize with feelings and thoughts of others, be they humans or other animals on Earth.
They were painfully clean. But inwardly they stank. Never once had they opened the door which leads to the soul; never once did they dream of taking a blind leap into the dark.
How inappropriate to call this planet Earth when it is quite clearly Ocean.
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