All uncertainty is fruitfull ... so long as it is accompanied by the wish to understand
Antonio MachadoRead
Has my heart gone to sleep? Have the beehives of my dreams stopped working, the waterwheel of the mind run dry, scoops turning empty, only shadow inside? No, my heart is not asleep. It is awake, wide awake. Not asleep, not dreaming— its eyes are opened wide watching distant signals, listening on the rim of vast silence
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote reflects a deep self-awareness and realization of the vibrancy of the mind and heart, despite feelings of emptiness.
Antonio Machado's quote articulates a struggle between perception and reality. It conveys that even when we feel stagnant or uninspired, our inner selves remain alert and aware. The heart and mind are not in a state of slumber but are instead engaged in a deeper awareness, observing the world around us with an attentive consciousness. This suggests that moments of stillness and quiet can foster a profound understanding and insight; they remind us to remain attentive to life's signals, no matter how distant they may seem.
Themes
AwarenessDreamsMindHeartbeatSilence
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be shared during a reflection session in a meditation class.
More from Antonio Machado
All quotes →No one can shed light on vices he does not have or afflictions he has ever experienced.
Antonio MachadoRead
XXIX Traveler, there is no path. The path is made by walking. Traveller, the path is your tracks And nothing more. Traveller, there is no path The path is made by walking. By walking you make a path And turning, you look back At a way you will never tread again Traveller, there is no road Only wakes in the sea.
Antonio MachadoRead
I. Don't trace out your profile-- forget your side view-- all that is outer stuff. II. Look for your other half who walks always next to you and tends to be who you aren't.
Antonio MachadoRead
Life is the path you beat while you walk it It's the walking that beats the path It is not the path that makes the walk
Antonio MachadoRead
Hell is the bloodcurdling mansion of time, in whose profoundest circle Satan himself waits, winding a gargantuan watch in his hand.
Antonio MachadoRead
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