"A lot of words in English confuse the idea of life and electricity, like the word livewire"
- Laurie Anderson
About this Quote
In this quote, Laurie Anderson is explaining the confusion that can occur when using certain words in the English language. Specifically, she mentions the word "livewire" which can have several significances. On one hand, it can describe an individual who is full of energy and excitement, like a "live wire." On the other hand, it can likewise describe an electrical wire that brings electricity. Anderson suggests that this word, and others like it, can blur the lines between the concept of life and electrical energy. This highlights the intricacy of language and how words can have different analyses and meanings.
"Life is life - whether in a cat, or dog or man. There is no difference there between a cat or a man. The idea of difference is a human conception for man's own advantage"