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
Not much about California, on its own preferred terms, has encouraged its children to see themselves as connected to one another.
Interpretation
The quote highlights the lack of community and connection among individuals in California.
Joan Didion reflects on the culture of California, suggesting that it does not foster a sense of unity or belonging among its inhabitants. This lack of encouragement for individuals to see themselves as part of a larger community may lead to feelings of isolation and disconnection, impacting their relationships with each other.
In practice
In a speech about community development, this quote can be used to emphasize the importance of fostering connections among residents.
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.
and if anybody asks me is it easy to forget I'll say it is easily done, you just pick anyone, and pretend that you never have met
There were always in me, two women at least, one woman desperate and bewildered, who felt she was drowning and another who would leap into a scene, as upon a stage, conceal her true emotions because they were weaknesses, helplessness, despair, and present to the world only a smile, an eagerness, curiosity, enthusiasm, interest.
People tend to have one of three 'styles' of interaction. There are takers, who are always trying to serve themselves; matchers, who are always trying to get equal benefit for themselves and others; and givers, who are always trying to help people.
If you wish to be brothers, drop your weapons.
From the moment I leave my house or my hotel room, the public owns me. The public made Alice Cooper and I can't imagine ever turning my back on my fans.
This may sound a little bit idealistic, but when I go to my blog, my Facebook page, my Twitter account, I talk to different people from all over the world, and you see how it's easy to establish a dialogue.
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