Two polar groups: at one pole we have the literary intellectuals, at the other scientists, and as the most representative, the physical scientists. Between the two a gulf of mutual incomprehension.
C.P. SnowRead
I was moving among two groups... who had almost ceased to communicate at all, who in intellectual, moral, and psychological climate had so little in common that... one might have crossed the ocean.
Interpretation
This quote reflects the disconnect and lack of communication between different social or intellectual groups.
C.P. Snow comments on the significant divide between two groups that, despite existing in the same environment, have drifted apart in terms of communication, understanding, and shared values. This highlights the barriers that can develop in society, leading to isolation and an inability to bridge differences, which can be detrimental to collaboration and progress.
In practice
In a speech about bridging divides in society, one could use this quote to illustrate the importance of fostering communication.
Two polar groups: at one pole we have the literary intellectuals, at the other scientists, and as the most representative, the physical scientists. Between the two a gulf of mutual incomprehension.
Advertising degrades the people it appeals to; it deprives them of their will to choose.
People who do not need to please are irresistible because they radiate wholeness, a rare delicacy in a world of hungry hearts.
The fallen angel becomes a malignant devil. Yet even that enemy of God and man had friends and associates in his desolation; I am alone.
Companies in the East put a lot more emphasis on human relationships, while those from the West focus on the product, the bottom line. Westerners appear to have more of a need for achievement, while in the East there's more need for affiliation.
You will lose someone you can’t live without,and your heart will be badly broken, and the bad news is that you never completely get over the loss of your beloved. But this is also the good news. They live forever in your broken heart that doesn’t seal back up. And you come through. It’s like having a broken leg that never heals perfectly—that still hurts when the weather gets cold, but you learn to dance with the limp.
Keep in mind that to avoid loneliness, many people need both a social circle and an intimate attachment. Having just one of two may still leave you feeling lonely.
Cruel is the strife of brothers.
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