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People think about who they are in the stillest hour of the night. I carry this thought, the child's mystery and terror of this thought, I feel this immensity in my soul every second of my life.
Don Delillo
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Interpretation

What this quote means

In quiet moments, we confront our true selves and the enormity of existence.

This quote by Don Delillo reflects on the introspection that occurs during the stillness of night, a time when individuals are most vulnerable to their thoughts and the profound mysteries of life. The 'child's mystery and terror' evokes the innate fear and wonder we experience in confronting our identity and the vastness of our existence, emphasizing the importance of such contemplations in shaping our understanding of ourselves and the world around us.

Themes

IntrospectionExistenceIdentityNightMystery

In practice

Example use cases

During a meditation session, one could reflect on the nature of self with Delillo's words in mind.

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[I]n the American soul there is a lonely individual standing in a vast landscape. 
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