Paris was a universe whole and entire unto herself, hollowed and fashioned by history; so she seemed in this age of Napoleon III with her towering buildings, her massive cathedrals, her grand boulevards and ancient winding medieval streets - as vast and indestructible as nature itself.
Interpretation
This quote expresses the idea that Paris embodies a timeless beauty shaped by its rich history and architecture.
In this quote, Anne Rice captures the essence of Paris as a city that holds a unique and profound identity, shaped by its historical significance and grand architectural landmarks. The description highlights how the city's imposing structures and ancient streets create a sense of permanence and strength, likening it to the indestructible forces of nature. Through this imagery, Rice conveys a deep admiration for the beauty and character of Paris, illustrating its role as a living testament to history.
In practice
During a presentation on architecture, one might quote this to emphasize the historical significance of urban spaces.
From my stone pillow I have dreamed dreams of the mortal world above. I have heard its voices, its new music, as lullabies as I lie in my grave. I have envisioned its fantastical discoveries. I have known its courage in the timeless sanctum of my thoughts. And though it shuts me out with its dazzling forms, I long for one with the strength to roam it fearlessly, to ride the Devil's Road through its heart.
We all suffer under a curse, the curse that we know more than we can endure, and there is nothing, absolutely nothing we can do about the force and the lure of this knowledge.
And so this young one, this young one whom I had so loved, I had to forsake, no matter how broken my heart, no matter how lonely my soul, no matter how bruised my intellect and spirit.
Dear God, help me. Do not forget me on this tiny cinder lost in a galaxy that is lost–a heart no bigger than a speck of dust beating, beating against death, against meaninglessness, against guilt, against sorrow.
The vampires have always been metaphors for me. They've always been vehicles through which I can express things I have felt very, very deeply.
In the very depths of Hell, do not demons love one another?
Writing is sacred, other activities are profane, and I don't want them to corrupt my writing.
Architecture begins where engineering ends.
When I design and wonder what the point is, I think of someone having a bad time in their life. Maybe they are sad and they wake up and put on something I have made and it makes them feel just a bit better. So, in that sense, fashion is a little help in the life of a person. But only a little.
Well I got this guitar and I learned how to make it talk.
Birds sat on the telegraph wires that spanned the river as the black notes sit on a staff of music.
I had no proof that I had the stuff to be an artist, though I hungered to be one.
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