“As individuals die every moment, how insensitive and fabricated a love it is to set aside a day from selfish routine in prideful, patriotic commemoration of tragedy. Just as God is provoked by those who tithe simply because they feel that they must tithe, I am provoked by those who commemorate simply because they feel that they must commemorate.”
Examining the Modern Relevance of Commemoration
Criss Jami's quote challenges us to think critically about the sincerity and authenticity of our commemorations. In an age where social media and performative activism often overshadow genuine empathy and understanding, this quote serves as a reminder to reflect on the significance and meaning behind our actions.
Analysis of the Quote
In this quote by Criss Jami, the speaker questions the sincerity and authenticity of setting aside a day for remembrance, such as a patriotic commemoration of tragedy. They argue that such acts can become routine and selfish, devoid of genuine emotion and meaning. The comparison to tithing out of obligation rather than genuine devotion adds another layer to the critique of mandatory commemoration. This quote challenges the reader to reflect on the true motivations behind their actions and to strive for more meaningful and heartfelt connections in their expressions of love and remembrance.
Thought-provoking quote by Criss Jami
“As individuals die every moment, how insensitive and fabricated a love it is to set aside a day from selfish routine in prideful, patriotic commemoration of tragedy. Just as God is provoked by those who tithe simply because they feel that they must tithe, I am provoked by those who commemorate simply because they feel that they must commemorate.” - Criss Jami
This quote challenges the idea of commemorating tragedies and events out of obligation rather than genuine sentiment.
Reflection Questions
Reflecting on this quote by Criss Jami, consider the following questions:
- How do you personally feel about commemorating tragic events or important dates?
- Do you think it is genuine to set aside a specific day for remembrance, or do you agree with the idea that it can sometimes be insincere or fabricated?
- How can we ensure that our acts of commemoration are meaningful and not just done out of routine or obligation?
- In what ways can we demonstrate true empathy and understanding for those affected by tragic events, both on memorial days and throughout the year?
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“It is you who are unpoetical," replied the poet Syme. "If what you say of clerks is true, they can only be as prosaic as your poetry. The rare, strange thing is to hit the mark; the gross, obvious thing is to miss it. We feel it is epical when man with one wild arrow strikes a distant bird. Is it not also epical when man with one wild engine strikes a distant station? Chaos is dull; because in chaos the train might indeed go anywhere, to Baker Street or to Bagdad. But man is a magician, and his whole magic is in this, that he does say Victoria, and lo! it is Victoria. No, take your books of mere poetry and prose; let me read a time table, with tears of pride. Take your Byron, who commemorates the defeats of man; give me Bradshaw, who commemorates his victories. Give me Bradshaw, I say!”