It seems that fighting is a game where everybody is the loser.
Zora Neale HurstonRead
There is a basin in the mind where words float around on thought and thought on sound and sight. Then there is a depth of thought untouched by words, and deeper still a gulf of formless feelings untouched by thought.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote highlights the distinction between thoughts expressed in words and the deeper, often indescribable feelings that lie beyond language.
Zora Neale Hurston's quote explores the complexity of human thought and emotion, suggesting that while language can capture many ideas and sentiments, there exists a profound layer of experience that transcends verbal expression. The imagery of a 'basin' signifies a space where words and thoughts can intermingle, but it is contrasted with a deeper, almost mystical depth of feeling that remains elusive to articulation. This reflection on language and emotion invites us to acknowledge the limitations of words in conveying the fullness of our inner lives.
Themes
ThoughtWordsFeelingsLanguageDepthPhilosophy
In practice
Example use cases
In a discussion about the limits of language in expressing emotions, this quote can illustrate how deeper feelings often remain unarticulated.
More from Zora Neale Hurston
All quotes →Lack of power and opportunity passes off too often for virtue.
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From barren brown stems to glistening leaf-buds; from the leaf-buds to snowy virginity of bloom…It was like a flute song forgotten in another existence and remembered again. What? How? Why? This singing she heard that had nothing to do with her ears. The rose of the world was breathing out smell. It followed her through all her waking moments and caressed her in her sleep.
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Someone is always at my elbow reminding me that I am the granddaughter of slaves. It fails to register depression with me.
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Don't you realize that the sea is the home of water? All water is off on a journey unless it's in the sea, and it's homesick, and bound to make its way home someday.
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Two things everybody's got tuh do fuh theyselves. They got tuh go tuh God, and they got tuh find out about livin' fuh theyselves.
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