The comic spirit is given to us in order that we may analyze, weigh, and clarify things in us which nettle us, or which we are outgrowing, or trying to reshape
Thornton WilderRead
[Whenever] you get near the human race, there's layers and layers of nonsense.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote highlights the complexity and absurdity often found in human interactions and societal norms.
Thornton Wilder's quote suggests that when engaging with humanity, one is confronted with a web of complexities and absurdities. It implies that the human experience is often clouded by irrational beliefs, social conventions, and trivial distractions that can obfuscate genuine understanding and connection. Essentially, it reflects a critical perspective on the nature of human society, suggesting that amidst our interactions, we encounter layers of nonsense rather than clarity.
Themes
HumanityNonsenseComplexitySocietyInteraction
In practice
Example use cases
During a discussion on social media about the absurdities of societal norms.
More from Thornton Wilder
All quotes →A man looks pretty small at a wedding, George. All those good women standing shoulder to shoulder, making sure that the knot's tied in a mighty public way.
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Good-by, Good-by, world. Good-by, Grover's Corners... Mama and Papa. Good-by to clocks ticking... and Mama's sunflowers. And food and coffee. And new-ironed dresses and hot baths...and sleeping and waking up. Oh, earth, you're too wonderful for anybody to realize you.
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When you're safe at home you wish you were having an adventure; when you're having an adventure you wish you were safe at home.
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Many great writers have been extraordinarily awkward in daily exchange, but the greatest give the impression that their style was nursed by the closest attention to colloquial speech.
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I want you to try and remember what it was like to have been very young. And particularly the days when you were first in love; when you were like a person sleepwalking, and you didn’t quite see the street you were in, and didn’t quite hear everything that was said to you. You’re just a little bit crazy. Will you remember that, please?
Thornton WilderRead
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