“Who claims Truth, Truth abandons. History is hir'd, or coerc'd, only in Interests that must ever prove base. She is too innocent, to be left within the reach of anyone in Power,- who need but touch her, and all her Credit is in the instant vanish'd, as if it had never been. She needs rather to be tended lovingly and honorably by fabulists and counterfeiters, Ballad-Mongers and Cranks of ev'ry Radius, Masters of Disguise to provide her the Costume, Toilette, and Bearing, and Speech nimble enough to keep her beyond the Desires, or even the Curiosity, of Government.”
Analysis of Quote:
In this quote by Thomas Pynchon, the speaker delves into the concept of truth and history, suggesting that those in power can easily manipulate and distort them for their own selfish interests. The speaker argues that truth is vulnerable and must be protected from those in positions of authority, who have the ability to tarnish its credibility with a mere touch. Pynchon emphasizes the importance of storytellers and artists in preserving and shaping the narrative of history, as they have the creativity and ability to present truth in a way that is resistant to manipulation by governmental forces. This quote showcases Pynchon's skepticism of power and the need for vigilance in safeguarding the integrity of truth and history.
Modern Relevance
In this quote by Thomas Pynchon, the idea of truth being manipulated and distorted by those in power resonates strongly in today's society. With the rise of misinformation and fake news, the concept of history being shaped by those with ulterior motives is more relevant than ever. This quote serves as a reminder to be critical of the narratives presented to us and to recognize the power dynamics at play in shaping our understanding of the world.
Use of Quote by Thomas Pynchon
In this quote, Thomas Pynchon highlights the danger of those in power manipulating history for their own interests. He emphasizes the need for history to be protected and preserved by individuals who can maintain its integrity and authenticity. This quote reflects Pynchon's skepticism towards those who wield power and their ability to distort the truth for their own gains.
Reflection Questions:
As you reflect on Thomas Pynchon's words about Truth and History, consider the following questions:
- How does the concept of Truth being abandoned when claimed by someone relate to your understanding of truth and power dynamics?
- In what ways have you seen history being manipulated or coerced for certain interests? How does this impact our understanding of the past?
- What do you think Pynchon means by suggesting that history should be tended by fabulists and counterfeiters rather than those in power? How does this challenge traditional views of historical narratives?
- How can we ensure that the telling of history remains authentic and true to the past while also being shielded from the influence of those in power?
- How can individuals, as well as society as a whole, work towards preserving the integrity of historical truths and narratives in the face of potential manipulation and coercion?
Similar quotes
“She'd abandoned the animal she loved as she herself had been abandoned repeatedly in the past by people who had claimed to love her.”
“she felt that there was a tide within her, moving with the power of the moon and the ocean and the goddess, who had bound them together, rising, cresting within her heart untill she thought that she must weep, or laugh, or both. she felt her world shifting, remaking itself; holding on to all she was and all she known, but creating a space within these things for this man she was holding in her arms, so that he might share it with her, bringing to it all that he was and all that he had known. And in that instant, in the eternity of that kiss, Alayna knew, with a joy that she found frightening even as it encompassed her, that her life would never again be as it had been.”
“He was a fool. Claire Montoya was convinced she didn’t need anyone. That her way was the only way.He kept walking.Because only a fool would want a woman who would never let him in. He could touch her skin, touch her body, but she’d never trust him enough to let him touch her heart. Not the way he wanted. And he couldn't do that. Not with her. Her terms were unacceptable, her barriers too high.”
“He’d never be able to touch her, and as passionate as she was, she would eventually need a man who could. He’d never had to worry about these things before because he’d never been with a woman. Not even before his possession. He’d been too busy then, too involved in his job. Maybe he needed to join Workaholics Anonymous, he thought dryly. He had to be the only millennia-old virgin in history.”
“Sophie said to me once that she was glad she had been scarred. She said that whoever loved her now would love her true self, and not her pretty face. This is your true self, Tessa. This power is who you are. Whoever loves you now--and you must also love yourself--will love the truth of you.”