Normal, in our house, is like a blanket too short for a bed--sometimes it covers you just fine, and other times it leaves you cold and shaking; and worst of all, you never know which of the two it's going to be.
Jodi PicoultRead
If his voice hasn't been the melody of my life, it's been the bass line, so subtle you don't notice it until it's missing.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote expresses how someone's presence is a fundamental part of your life, even if it's not always overtly acknowledged.
Jodi Picoult's quote highlights the importance of a loved one's influence in our lives, comparing it to music. The voice of a significant person can represent the vibrant melody, while their constant support acts as a subtle yet crucial bass line. Both elements come together to create the richness of our experiences, and when absent, the void becomes painfully noticeable.
Themes
LoveInfluencePresenceLifeSupport
In practice
Example use cases
During a wedding speech to express love and appreciation.
More from Jodi Picoult
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when you [lose someone], it feels like the hole in your gum when a tooth falls out. You can chew, you can eat, you have plenty of other teeth, but your tongue keeps going back to that empty place, where all nerves are still a little raw
Jodi PicoultRead
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Though I am old with wandering Through hollow lands and hilly lands, I will find out where she has gone, And kiss her lips and take her hands; And walk among long dappled grass, And pluck till time and times are done The silver apples of the moon, The golden apples of the sun.
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