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As evening approached, I came down from the heights of the island, and I liked then to go and sit on the shingle in some secluded spot by the lake; there the noise of the waves and the movement of the water, taking hold of my senses and driving all other agitation from my soul, would plunge me into delicious reverie in which night often stole upon me unawares.
Jean-Jacques Rousseau
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Interpretation

What this quote means

This quote emphasizes the tranquility found in nature and the solace it brings to the mind and soul.

In this quote, Jean-Jacques Rousseau reflects on the profound sense of peace he experiences when sitting by the lake as evening falls. The natural sounds of the waves and the gentle movement of the water allow him to escape from the stresses and distractions of life, leading him into a state of deep contemplation and serenity, often without realizing how time has passed.

Themes

NaturePeaceReflectionSerenityWavesLakeReverie

In practice

Example use cases

This quote can be used in a speech about the benefits of spending time in nature.

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