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Am I alive and a reality, or am I but a dream?
Edgar Rice Burroughs
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Interpretation

What this quote means

This quote questions the nature of existence and reality, considering whether life is tangible or merely an illusion.

In this quote, Edgar Rice Burroughs explores the complex and often philosophical distinction between reality and perception. He prompts the reader to ponder the essence of existence, encouraging a contemplation of whether our experiences and consciousness are truly authentic or simply figments of imagination—a common theme in philosophy that invites deeper reflection on what it means to 'be' in the world.

Themes

RealityExistenceDreamPhilosophySelf-Awareness

In practice

Example use cases

During a philosophical discussion about consciousness at a gathering.

More from Edgar Rice Burroughs

It must be that I am dreaming, and that I shall awaken in a moment to see that awful knife descending toward my heart- kiss me, dear, just once before I lose my dream forever." -Jane-
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Yes, I was a fool, but I was in love, and though I was suffering the greatest misery I had ever known I would not have had it otherwise for all the riches of Barsoom. Such is love, and such are lovers wherever love is known.
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It never seems to occur to some people, that, like beauty, a sense of humor may sometimes be fatal.
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No fiction is worth reading except for entertainment. If it entertains and is clean, it is good literature, or its kind. If it forms the habit of reading, in people who might not read otherwise, it is the best literature.
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This was life! Ah, how he loved it! Civilization held nothing like this in its narrow and circumscribed sphere, hemmed in by restrictions and conventionalities. Even clothes were a hindrance and a nuisance. At last he was free. He had not realized what a prisoner he had been.
Edgar Rice BurroughsRead
I shall have to believe even though I cannot understand.
Edgar Rice BurroughsRead

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