“A few days back someone sent me two feathers. Two bird's feathers in a sheet of note-paper with a coronet, and fastened with a seal. Sent from a place a long way off; from one who need not have sent them back at all. That amused me too, those devilish green feathers.”
Analysis of Knut Hamsun's Quote
In this quote by Knut Hamsun, the speaker reflects on receiving two feathers in the mail from someone far away, noting that the sender need not have sent them back at all. The speaker finds amusement in the gesture, referring to the feathers as "devilish green." This quote captures the whimsical and mysterious nature of human connections and gestures, highlighting the intrigue and complexity of relationships.
Modern Relevance
In today's digital age, the act of sending physical feathers and handwritten notes may seem outdated and unusual. However, the underlying message of thoughtfulness and personal touch behind such a gesture remains as relevant as ever. The surprise and amusement expressed by Knut Hamsun upon receiving the feathers serves as a reminder of the impact of small, unexpected acts of kindness in our fast-paced world.
Knut Hamsun
In this quote, the speaker recounts receiving a peculiar gift of two feathers from someone far away. The feathers are enclosed in a note paper with a seal and a coronet, adding to the mysterious nature of the gesture. The speaker finds amusement in the unexpected and extravagant gift.
Reflection Questions
In this quote from Knut Hamsun's work, the narrator receives two feathers from a distant sender and reflects on their significance. Consider the following questions in your reflection:
- How do you interpret the symbolism of the feathers in this passage?
- What do you think the significance of the sender being "a long way off" adds to the narrative?
- How does the description of the feathers as "devilish green" impact your understanding of the gift?
- Do you think the sender had a specific intention or message in sending the feathers to the narrator?
- How does this passage make you reflect on the themes of distance, communication, and connection in your own life?
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