The lamp sizzled as it burned. It made everything seem close and safe, a little family circle they all knew and trusted. Outside this circle lay everything that was strange and frightening, and the darkness seemed to reach higher and higher and further and further away, right to the end of the world.
Interpretation
This quote describes the comfort and safety of being in a familiar environment amidst the chaos of the outside world.
Tove Jansson's quote reflects the idea of a cozy, protective space that fosters a sense of belonging and trust among loved ones. The image of the lamp represents warmth and safety, creating a stark contrast to the unpredictable and daunting nature of the world beyond this intimate circle, where fear and unfamiliarity lurk in the darkness. It emphasizes the value of family and close relationships in providing comfort and security against life's uncertainties.
In practice
In a speech about the importance of family bonds, this quote could be used to illustrate the safety a family provides.
Look at The Adventure. A boat by night is a wonderful sight. This is the way to start a new life, with a hurricane lamp shining at the top of the mast, and the coastline disappearing behind one as the whole world lies sleeping. Making a journey by night is more wonderful than anything in the world.
It is simply this: do not tire, never lose interest, never grow indifferent—lose your invaluable curiosity and you let yourself die. It's as simple as that.
A very long time ago, Grandmother had wanted to tell about all the things they did, but no one had bothered to ask. And now she had lost the urge.
Smell is important. It reminds a person of all the things he's been through; it is a sheath of memories and security.
I love borders. August is the border between summer and autumn; it is the most beautiful month I know. Twilight is the border between day and night, and the shore is the border between sea and land. The border is longing: when both have fallen in love but still haven't said anything. The border is to be on the way. It is the way that is the most important thing.
...by and by a change came: I started to muse about the shape of my nose. I put my trivial surroundings aside and mused more and more about myself, and I found this to be a bewitching occupation. I stopped asking and longed instead to speak of my thoughts and feelings. Alas, there was no one besides myself who found me interesting.
Your great puddin' of a son don' need fattin' anymore Dursley, don't worry
Who ran to help me when I fell, And would some pretty story tell, Or kiss the place to make it well? My mother.
Men, to exist, to become complete and mature, need to feel the joy of fatherhood. When a man does not have this desire, something is missing in this man, it is like an incomplete life: a life that stops half way. The grace of fatherhood; of giving life to others, of pastoral paternity, of spiritual paternity is a gift from God.
This is a moment that I deeply wish my parents could have lived to share. My father would have enjoyed what you have so generously said of me-and my mother would have believed it.
For millions of girls around the world, motherhood comes too early. Those who bear children as adolescents suffer higher maternal mortality and morbidity rates, and their children are more likely to die in infancy.
The moment a child is born, the mother is also born.
Subscribe for the occasional hand-picked quote. No noise.