To shift the structure of a sentence alters the meaning of that sentence, as definitely and inflexibly as the position of a camera alters the meaning of the object photographed.
Joan DidionRead
When I began writing these pages I believed their subject to be children, the ones we have and the ones we wish we had, the ways in which we depend on our children to depend on us, the ways in which we encourage them to remain children, the ways in which they remain more unknown to us than they do to their more casual acquaintances; the ways in which we remain equally opaque to them.
Interpretation
This quote reflects on the complex relationship between parents and children, emphasizing the mutual dependence and lack of understanding in that bond.
Joan Didion's quote delves into the intricate dynamics of the parent-child relationship. It highlights how parents often perceive their children and their needs, while also touching on the ways children see their parents. Didion suggests that both parties have their own mysteries and complexities that are often overlooked, leading to a deeper commentary on the challenge of truly understanding one another within familial bonds.
In practice
A parent might use this quote in a speech about the challenges of raising children.
To shift the structure of a sentence alters the meaning of that sentence, as definitely and inflexibly as the position of a camera alters the meaning of the object photographed.
The truth is, it's easier for me to write than talk... to express the state I'm in at any time.
Memories are what you no longer want to remember.
It was clear, for example, in 1988 that the political process had already become perilously remote from the electorate it was meant to represent.
I mean maybe I was holding all the aces, but what was the game?
Do not whine... Do not complain. Work harder. Spend more time alone.
The most important thing I do is I'm a dad.
My parents gave me stability and a belief in myself and in all the possibilities life has to offer. I was told the only limitations I would ever face were those I placed upon myself.
In family relationships, 'love' is really spelled 't-i-m-e,' time. Taking time for each other is the key for harmony at home.
In my 50s I'll be dancing at my children's weddings.
If I do my job well, then God will smile on my offspring and on their offspring. I'm sure my father is seeing a blessing in me.
Be at your mother’s feet and there is the Paradise.
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