“These are things you should learn. Your past is a skeleton walking one step behind you; your future is a skeleton walking one step in front of you. Maybe you don’t wear a watch, but your skeletons do, and they always know what time it is. Now, these skeletons are made of memories, dreams, and voices. And they can trap you in the in-between, between touching and becoming. But they’re not necessarily evil, unless you let them be.”
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Quote Analysis
In this quote by Sherman Alexie, he uses the metaphor of skeletons to represent the past and the future. The skeletons symbolize the memories, dreams, and voices that shape who we are. Alexie emphasizes that these skeletons are always present, informing our actions and decisions. He warns that we can become trapped in the "in-between" when we let our past and future dictate our present moment. Ultimately, Alexie suggests that we have the power to control how our skeletons influence us, as they are not inherently good or evil.
Reflection on Time and Memories
Sherman Alexie's quote beautifully illustrates the concept of time and memories influencing our past and future. The idea of our skeletons made of memories, dreams, and voices guides us to reflect on what shapes us and how we can choose to move forward.
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