"The recent past always presents itself as if destroyed by catastrophes"

In this quote, Theodor Adorno is recommending that the way we view the current past is frequently affected by the disastrous events that have taken place. He is suggesting that these occasions have a powerful effect on our memories and shape our understanding of the past. Adorno is likewise highlighting the harmful nature of these catastrophes, as they have the capability to modify our perception of truth. This quote might likewise be translated as a commentary on how society tends to concentrate on the negative elements of the recent past, instead of acknowledging the positive elements. In general, Adorno is stressing the substantial function that catastrophes play in forming our understanding of the recent past.