Jump off. You are a protected individual. Do not fear.
Henry MillerRead
It isn't the oceans which cut us off from the world - it's the American way of looking at things.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote suggests that our perspective, shaped by culture, can be more isolating than physical barriers.
Henry Miller's quote highlights the idea that it is not geographical distance or physical barriers like oceans that alienate us from the world, but rather the mindset and worldview we adopt. The 'American way of looking at things' implies a certain perspective that can limit our understanding and connection with others, suggesting that a narrow or culturally specific viewpoint can create psychological and emotional barriers that separate us from diverse experiences and relationships.
Themes
PerspectiveCultureIsolationWorldviewUnderstanding
In practice
Example use cases
In a discussion about cultural differences, this quote can emphasize the importance of open-mindedness.
More from Henry Miller
All quotes βI saw through to the last sign and symbol, but I could not read her face. I could see only the eyes shining through, huge, fleshy-like luminous beasts, as though I were swimming behind them in the electric effluvia of her incandescent vision.
Henry MillerRead
The essential thing is to WANT to sing. This then is a song. I am singing.
Henry MillerRead
Great God! What have I turned into? What right have you people to clutter up my life, steal my time, probe my soul, suckle my thoughts, have me for your companion, confidant, and information bureau? What do you take me for? Am I an entertainer on salary, required every evening to play an intellectual farce under your stupid noses? Am I a slave, bought and paid for, to crawl on my belly in front of you idlers and lay at your feet all that I do and all that I know?
Henry MillerRead
We are swimming on the face of time and all else has drowned, is drowning, or will drown.
Henry MillerRead
To sing you must first open your mouth. You must have a pair of lungs, and a little knowledge of music. It is not necessary to have an accordion, or a guitar. The essential thing is to want to sing. This then is a song. I am singing.
Henry MillerRead
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