This is my child. I planted it. I saw it grow. I loved it. Don't cut it down.
Interpretation
The speaker expresses deep affection and attachment to something they nurtured and developed, pleading for its preservation.
In this quote, R.K. Narayan conveys a profound sense of connection and love towards something that has been cared for and cultivated over time. The imagery of planting and watching it grow symbolizes a nurturing relationship, whether it be with a loved one, a project, or a dream. The plea to 'not cut it down' highlights the vulnerability of what one has cherished and the emotional pain that comes with loss.
In practice
During a speech about community gardening, one might say this quote to emphasize the importance of nurturing the environment.
We come together only to go apart again. The law of life can't be avoided. The law comes into operation the moment we detach ourselves from our mother's womb. All struggle & misery in life is due to our attempt to arrest this law or get away from it or in allowing ourselves to be hurt by it. The fact must be recognized. A profound unmitigated loneliness is the only truth of life. All else is false. The law of life. No sense in battling against it.
I keep a close watch on this heart of mine I keep my eyes wide open all the time I keep the ends out for the tie that binds Because you're mine, I walk the line.
Happiness is in your ability to love others.
Do not waste time bothering whether you "love" your neighbor; act as if you did.
Absence in love is like water upon fire; a little quickens, but much extinguishes it.
Love makes you blind to your own survival. And if it doesn't then it's not love at all.
We are never so defenseless against suffering as when we love, never so forlornly unhappy as when we have lost our love object or its love.
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