What was done to him was like what happens on the train, when you think you are moving forward, but are moving backward, and suddenly find out the real direction.
"Yes, it was all not right," he said to himself, "but never mind. I can, I can do 'right.' But what is 'right'?" he asked himself and suddenly grew still.
--from The Death of Ivan Ilyich
Category Archives: Language & Interpretation
the greatest commandments
A short fragment from Pascal: Two laws suffice to rule the whole Christian Republic better than all political laws. Of course Pascal is referring to Jesus’ words in Matthew chapter 22, when Jesus says that the whole law can be … Continue reading
grace and works
Writing a paper, and waiting for those crucial form-giving epiphanies… My approach to epiphany is 1) that it must be sought after, and 2) that the seeking is an organic process which consists of looking at different fragments of thoughts, … Continue reading
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pre-thought
I like to tell people about this, because it’s a very interesting experience I have.** As many know, I have a hard time reacting correctly to alarm clocks. This is because I am a pretty inert sleeper. So when the … Continue reading
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Exactitude
The relation of language to the world is like that of a map to the world. We cannot expect pure exactness in either. If a map were to be any more exact and detailed, with every piece of sand marked … Continue reading
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Communication.
Why is it so hard for two people to understand one another? It pains me so much. I can hardly even bear it. Friends, even closer friends, best friends, lovers, family: It isn’t easy with anyone. The closer the person, … Continue reading
Posted in "the Other", Language & Interpretation
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