I see the origin of the irresistible attraction of metaphor and analogy, the explanation of our strange and permanent need to find similarities in things. I can scarcely refrain from suspecting some ancient, diffused magnetism; a call from the center of things; a dim, almost lost memory, or perhaps a presentiment, pointless in so puny a being, of a universal syntax.
Interpretation
The quote reflects on our inherent desire to find connections and similarities in the world around us.
Roger Caillois discusses our deep-seated need for metaphor and analogy, suggesting that it points to a universal connection that underlies human experience. He evokes the idea that this need may stem from an ancient, perhaps instinctual understanding of the world, hinting at a 'universal syntax' that governs our perceptions and relationships.
In practice
In a lecture on creativity, one could use this quote to highlight the importance of drawing connections in the arts.
The requirements for our evolution have changed. Survival is no longer sufficient. Our evolution now requires us to develop spiritually-to become emotionally aware and make responsible choices. It requires us to align ourselves with the values of the soul-harmony, cooperation, sharing, and reverence for life.
If you wish to shine like day, burn up the night of self-existence. Dissolve in the Being who is everything.
When we understand that man is the only animal who must create meaning, who must open a wedge into neutral nature, we already understand the essence of love. Love is the problem of an animal who must find life, create a dialogue with nature in order to experience his own being.
History does nothing, possesses no enormous wealth, fights no battles. It is rather man, the real, living man, who does everything, possesses, fights. It is not History, as if she were a person apart, who uses men as a means to work out her purposes, but history itself is nothing but the activity of men pursuing their purposes.
If you're automatically sure that you know what reality is and who and what is really important - if you want to operate on your default-setting - then you, like me, will not consider possibilities that aren't pointless and annoying.
His Unique Selling Position was to make the world work for 100% of humanity. .
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