“when man determined to destroy himself he picked the was of shall and finding only why smashed it into because”
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Quote Analysis: E.E. Cummings
E.E. Cummings' quote, “when man determined to destroy himself he picked the was of shall and finding only why smashed it into because,” invites a deep exploration of human nature, existentialism, and the dynamics of choice and consequence. The use of unconventional syntax and playful language is characteristic of Cummings' style, reflecting the complexity of his thoughts.
Analysis
Human Destruction: The phrase “when man determined to destroy himself” suggests a conscious choice to engage in self-destructive behavior. This highlights the idea that self-destruction is not merely accidental but a deliberate act stemming from perhaps existential despair or confusion.
Wordplay: The terms “was” and “shall” present a juxtaposition of past existence versus future potential. “Was” carries connotations of inevitability and completion, while “shall” suggests a promise of possibility. By choosing “was,” the individual appears to resign to fate rather than embracing future prospects.
Searching for Meaning: The phrase “finding only why” implies a quest for understanding or rationalization of one’s existence. The resignation in finding only “why” suggests that the person struggles to find deeper meaning or purpose in their actions, leading to further despair.
Forceful Transformation: The transition from “why” to “because” through the verb “smashed” indicates an aggressive attempt to force meaning or justification into an otherwise futile search. This highlights a strong desire to attribute reasoning to one's actions, even if that reasoning may not be thoroughly thought out or justified.
Themes of Existentialism: The overall message of the quote reflects key themes in existential philosophy, including the struggle for meaning, the impact of choices on one's destiny, and the burden of self-determination. Cummings’ choice of words prompts readers to reflect on their own decisions and the implications of those choices on their lives.
In conclusion, Cummings artfully encapsulates the complexities of self-destructive tendencies, the inherent struggle for meaning, and the impact of language in shaping our understanding of existence in this thought-provoking quote.
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