“That’s what they mean by the womb of time: the agony and the despair of spreading bones, the hard girdle in which lie the outraged entrails of events.”
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Quote Analysis
In this quote by William Faulkner, he delves into the concept of time as a womb, a source of both agony and despair. Faulkner's use of imagery paints a vivid picture of time as a harsh entity that encompasses all events, including those filled with suffering and outrage. By comparing time to a womb, Faulkner emphasizes the inevitability and encompassing nature of time, highlighting how it holds the essence of events within its grasp, shaping their outcomes and impact. Faulkner's words evoke a sense of inevitability and the cyclical nature of time, suggesting that all events, both positive and negative, are held within its grasp.
Exploring the Timeless Themes of William Faulkner
In this quote, Faulkner captures the concept of time as a womb that holds within it the painful and tumultuous history of events. He conveys the idea that time is not just a passive force, but a powerful and sometimes destructive entity that shapes the course of history. This perspective can still resonate with modern audiences as a reminder of the enduring impact of past events on our present and future.
Reflection Questions:
Reflecting on William Faulkner's quote about the "womb of time," consider the following questions to deepen your understanding:
- What do you think Faulkner is trying to convey with the imagery of the "womb of time" and its association with agony and despair?
- In what ways do you see the concept of time as a vessel for both growth and suffering in your own life or in world events?
- How does the idea of events being held within the "womb of time" impact your perspective on history and the passage of time?
- Can you think of a personal or historical example that exemplifies the notion of events being encapsulated within time's girdle and the subsequent release of their impact?
- How does Faulkner's description of time as a vessel for both outrage and growth resonate with your own experiences or observations of the world?
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“So which is the lie? Hard or soft? Silence or time?”
“What a hideout: Holiness lies spread and borne over the surface of time and stuff like color.”
“What is the meaning of this gross outrage?”
“Don't despair: despair suggests you are in total control and know what is coming. You don't - surrender to events with hope.”