Famous quote by Annie Dillard

"I noticed this process of waking, and predicted with terrifying logic that one of these years not far away I would be awake continuously and never slip back, and never be free of myself again"

About this Quote

Annie Dillard's quote explores the existential moment of self-awareness and awareness, where the speaker reflects on the progressive procedure of becoming perpetually self-aware. It catches the essence of awakening not just from sleep, but into a severe and constant self-awareness that seems unavoidable.

The expression "procedure of waking" can be seen as a metaphor for the deepening awareness of one's own presence and thoughts. It alludes to moments when one get out of the automatic pilot of life and becomes fully mindful of their ideas, actions, and the passage of time. This "waking" is not always an enjoyable experience; instead, it is illustrated with a sense of inevitability and foreboding.

The use of the expression "predicted with terrifying logic" underscores the sense of fear that accompanies such self-awareness. The speaker appears to comprehend that this state of perpetual consciousness is unavoidable, which adds a layer of fatalism to the reflection. It suggests that, as human beings, we may make every effort to get away the concern of our thoughts and presence but are eventually bound to face them continually.

"The scary reasoning" highlights the logical understanding that as soon as self-awareness is fully awakened, it might lead to an unending fight with oneself. This indicates the loss of innocence or possibly ignorance, where the comfort of slipping back into unconscious modes of being is no longer possible. Such realization can be frustrating, as it requires individuals to continuously engage with their inner self, fears, desires, and truths they may choose to prevent.

Finally, "never be devoid of myself again" reveals the paradox of self-awareness: while it approves extensive insights and depth to life, it also strips away the flexibility of lack of knowledge. Dillard's words capture the fragile balance in between the present and burden of consciousness, urging readers to consider the repercussions of an ever-awake mind.

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USA Flag This quote is written / told by Annie Dillard somewhere between April 30, 1945 and today. He/she was a famous Author from USA. The author also have 23 other quotes.
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