“In The Highland Book of Platitudes, Marlais, there's an entry that reads, "Not all ghosts earn our memory in equal measure." I think about this sometimes. I think especially about the word "earn," because it implies an ongoing willful effort on the part of the dead, so that if you believe the platitude, you have to believe in the afterlife, don't you? Following that line of thought, there seem to be certain people—call them ghosts—with the ability to insinuate themselves into your life with more belligerence and exactitude than others—it's their employment and expertise.”
Explore This Quote Further
Quote Analysis:
In this quote by Howard Norman from his book, the narrator reflects on the idea of memory and the impact of certain individuals even after their passing. The use of the word "earn" in the context of ghosts and memory suggests a deliberate effort on the part of the deceased to actively influence the living. This prompts the narrator to consider the concept of an afterlife and the idea that some individuals possess the ability to linger more prominently in the lives of others. This reflection invites readers to ponder the lasting impact of certain individuals and the power they hold over our memories and experiences.
Modern Relevance
In this quote by Howard Norman, there is a contemplation on the idea of ghosts earning our memory and their ability to affect our lives. This concept can be seen as a metaphor for how certain memories or individuals from the past continue to have a significant impact on us in the present day. It raises questions about the lasting influence of the past on our thoughts, emotions, and actions, highlighting the importance of acknowledging and processing these lingering "ghosts" in order to move forward.
Analysis of "The Highland Book of Platitudes" by Howard Norman
In the passage provided, the author discusses a specific entry in "The Highland Book of Platitudes" by Marlais, exploring the idea that not all ghosts hold equal significance in our memories. The use of the word "earn" suggests a continual effort on the part of the deceased to be remembered, sparking thoughts on the existence of an afterlife. The author ponders on how certain individuals, even in death, have a profound impact on our lives.
Reflection Questions
In the passage provided, Howard Norman explores the idea of ghosts earning our memory in unequal measure. This concept raises questions about the afterlife, the impact of certain individuals on our lives, and the idea of memory and remembrance. Reflect on the following questions to delve deeper into the themes presented:
Do you believe in the afterlife or the existence of ghosts? How does your belief (or lack thereof) in the afterlife influence the way you interpret the idea of ghosts earning our memory?
How do you interpret the concept of ghosts "earning" our memory? What do you think this says about the relationship between the living and the dead?
Reflect on the idea of certain individuals being able to "insinuate themselves into your life with more belligerence and exactitude" than others. Can you think of any examples from your own life where someone has had a lasting impact on you, even after their physical presence is no longer there?
How important do you think memory and remembrance are in shaping our identities and relationships with others? Do you believe that some ghosts have a greater influence on our lives than others?
Consider how the passage connects the idea of memory with the concept of ghosts. How does the act of remembering someone who has passed away keep their presence alive in our lives?
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