A symbol always transcends the one who makes use of it and makes him say in reality more than he is aware of expressing.
Interpretation
Symbols carry deeper meanings that often extend beyond the creator's intentions.
In this quote, Albert Camus highlights the powerful nature of symbols, suggesting that they hold meanings and implications that can surpass the original thoughts of their creator. Symbols can evoke complex ideas and feelings in others, often communicating more than the individual who employs them is consciously aware of, revealing the intricate relationship between expression and understanding in human communication.
In practice
In a discussion on art, this quote can be used to underline how interpretations vary from viewer to viewer.
The Poor Man whom everyone speaks of, the Poor Man whom everyone pities, one of the repulsive Poor from whom charitable souls keep their distance, he has still said nothing. Or, rather, he has spoken through the voice of Victor Hugo, Zola, Richepin. At least, they said so. And these shameful impostures fed their authors. Cruel irony, the Poor Man tormented with hunger feeds those who plead his case.
The certainty of a God giving meaning to life far surpasses in attractiveness the ability to behave badly with impunity. The choice would not be hard to make. But there is no choice and that is where the bitterness comes in. The absurd does not liberate; it binds.
Between history and the eternal I have chosen history because I like certainties. Of it, at least, I am certain, and how can I deny this force crushing me.
Don't wait for the last judgment - it takes place every day.
A single sentence will suffice for modern man. He fornicated and read the papers. After that vigorous definition, the subject will be, if I may say so, exhausted.
At times I feel myself overtaken by an immense tenderness for these people around me who live in the same century.
There is no subjection so perfect as that which keeps the appearance of freedom.
I have very carefully studied Islam and the life of its Prophet (PBUH). I have done so both as a student of history and as a critic. And I have come to conclusion that Muhammad (PBUH) was indeed a great man and a deliverer and benefactor of mankind which was till then writhing under the most agonising Pain.
I think that ideas exist outside of ourselves. I think somewhere, we're all connected off in some very abstract land. But somewhere between there and here ideas exist.
I long for the days of disorder. I want them back, the days when I was alive on the earth, rippling in the quick of my skin, heedless and real. I was dumb-muscled and angry and real. This is what I long for, the breach of peace, the days of disarray when I walked real streets and did things slap-bang and felt angry and ready all the time, a danger to others and a distant mystery to myself.
In the eyes of government we are just one race here. It is American.
I swear, by my life and my love of it, that I will never live for the sake of another man, nor ask another man to live for mine.
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