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.
A pool is, for many of us in the West, a symbol not of affluence but of order, of control over the uncontrollable. A pool is water, made available and useful, and is, as such, infinitely soothing to the western eye.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote suggests that a pool represents human mastery over nature and brings comfort to those in the West.
In this quote, Joan Didion emphasizes the symbolic significance of a pool in Western culture, viewing it not just as a luxury item but as a representation of order and control in an otherwise chaotic world. She highlights how the presence of a well-maintained pool provides a sense of calm and organization, allowing individuals to experience tranquility and comfort through the manipulation of natural elements, particularly water.
Themes
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech about urban design, one could reference this quote to highlight the importance of creating spaces that provide a sense of order.
More from Joan Didion
All quotes →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.
Similar quotes
So long as you do not achieve social liberty, whatever freedom is provided by the law is of no avail to you.
Sometimes it seemed like the truth was a bandy-legged soul who dashed from one side of the world to the other and I could never find him.
Whenever ego suffers from fear of death & your practice turns to seeing impermanence, ego settles down.
He threatens many that hath injured one.
What yesterday was still religion is no longer such today; and what today is atheism, tomorrow will be religion.
Surrender is not something that you can do. If you do it, it is not surrender, because the doer is there. Surrender is a great understanding that, "I am not." Surrender is an insight that the ego exists not, that, "I am not separate." Surrender is not an act but an understanding.