The Enlightenment, the Age of Reason, is seen as the beginning of modern depravity.
Umberto EcoRead
I developed a passion for the Middle Ages the same way some people develop a passion for coconuts.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote humorously compares an unexpected passion for the Middle Ages to a quirky love for coconuts.
Umberto Eco's quote reflects on the unpredictable nature of human interests and passions. By likening his fascination with the Middle Ages to a whimsical affection for coconuts, he emphasizes that such enthusiasm can arise from the most unexpected places, highlighting the personal and sometimes irrational basis of our interests.
Themes
PassionInterestsHumorMiddle AgesCoconuts
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech about following your passions, one might use this quote to illustrate the unpredictable nature of interests.
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The lunatic is all idΓ©e fixe, and whatever he comes across confirms his lunacy. You can tell him by the liberties he takes with common sense, by his flashes of inspiration, and by the fact that sooner or later he brings up the Templars.
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