-But rational thoughts lead only to rational thoughts, whereas irrational thoughts lead to new experiences.
Alan LightmanRead
Suppose time is a circle, bending back on itself. The world repeats itself, precisely, endlessly.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Time may not be linear, and events may recur in cycles instead of progressing in a straight line.
This quote suggests a philosophical perspective on time, where it is perceived as circular rather than linear. It proposes that events and experiences may repeat themselves infinitely, emphasizing the cyclical nature of existence and the possibility of eternal recurrence, prompting reflection on the implications of our actions and experiences throughout life.
Themes
TimeCircleCyclicalRepetitionExistence
In practice
Example use cases
In a philosophical discussion about the nature of time.
More from Alan Lightman
All quotes βIn this world, there are two times. There is mechanical time and there is body time. The first is as rigid and metallic as a massive pendulum of iron that swings back and forth, back and forth, back and forth. The second squirms and wriggles like a bluefish in a bay. The first is unyielding, predetermined. The second makes up its mind as it goes along.
Alan LightmanRead
And at the place where time stands still, one sees lovers kissing in the shadows of buildings, in a frozen embrace that will never let go. The loved one will never take his arms from where they are now, will never give back the bracelet of memories, will never journey afar from his lover, will never place himself in danger of self-sacrifice, will never fail to show his love, will never become jealous, will never fall in love with someone else, will never lose the passion of this instant of time.
Alan LightmanRead
In a world without future, each moment is the end of the world.
Alan LightmanRead
Who would fare better in this world of fitful time? Those who have seen the future and live only one life? Or those who have not seen the future and wait to live life? Or those who deny the future and live two lives?
Alan LightmanRead
The tragedy of this world is that everyone is alone. For a life in the past cannot be shared with the present.
Alan LightmanRead
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