“Does progress mean that we dissolve our ancient myths? If we forget our legends, I fear that we shall close an important door to the imagination”
Importance of Preserving Ancient Myths
"“Does progress mean that we dissolve our ancient myths? If we forget our legends, I fear that we shall close an important door to the imagination” - James Christensen"
Analysis
In this quote, James Christensen raises an important question about progress and its relationship to ancient myths and legends. He suggests that forgetting these stories could limit our imagination and close off a valuable source of inspiration. This quote highlights the potential loss that can come with moving forward without acknowledging and preserving the cultural and historical narratives that have shaped our understanding of the world. Christensen's words serve as a reminder of the importance of honoring and passing down these myths and legends to future generations.
The Importance of Preserving Myths and Legends in the Modern Age
In a world driven by technology and innovation, the value of ancient myths and legends may be overlooked. However, artist James Christensen reminds us that these stories hold a unique place in our collective imagination and should not be forgotten.
Reflection Questions
In the quote by James Christensen, he poses the idea that progress may lead to the dissolution of ancient myths and legends. This notion prompts us to consider the significance of these ancient stories and their role in shaping our imaginations. Reflecting on this concept can offer insight into the value of preserving myths amidst continued progress and modernization.
- How have ancient myths and legends influenced different cultures and societies throughout history?
- In what ways do myths contribute to the richness of human imagination and creativity?
- What benefits might there be in preserving ancient myths and legends alongside technological advancements and progress?
- How can we find a balance between embracing progress and honoring the traditions and stories that are deeply rooted in our cultural heritage?
- Reflect on a personal experience where a myth or legend has sparked your imagination or inspired you in some way.
Similar quotes
“By means of our myths and legends we maintain a sense of what we are worth and who we are. Without them we should undoubtedly go mad.”
“Myths can't be translated as they did in their ancient soil. We can only find our own meaning in our own time. ”
“Fiction is written with reality and reality is written with fiction. We can write fiction because there is reality and we can write reality because there is fiction; everything we consider today to be myth and legend, our ancestors believed to be history and everything in our history includes myths and legends. Before the splendid modern-day mind was formed our cultures and civilizations were conceived in the wombs of, and born of, what we identify today as "fiction, unreality, myth, legend, fantasy, folklore, imaginations, fabrications and tall tales." And in our suddenly realized glory of all our modern-day "advancements" we somehow fail to ask ourselves the question "Who designated myths and legends as unreality? " But I ask myself this question because who decided that he was spectacular enough to stand up and say to our ancestors "You were all stupid and disillusioned and imagining things" and then why did we all decide to believe this person? There are many realities not just one. There is a truth that goes far beyond what we are told today to believe in. And we find that truth when we are brave enough to break away from what keeps everybody else feeling comfortable. Your reality is what you believe in. And nobody should be able to tell you to believe otherwise.”
“There is an ancient legend which warns that, should we ever learn our true origin, our universe will instantly be destroyed.”
“There lies before us, if we choose, continual progress in happiness, knowledge and wisdom. Shall we instead choose death, because we cannot forget our quarrels? I appeal as a human being to human beings; remember your humanity, and forget the rest.”