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But remember that words are signals, counters. They are…

“But remember that words are signals, counters. They are not immortal. And it can happen - to use an image you'll understand - it can happen that a civilisation can be imprisoned in a linguistic contour which no longer matches the landscape of... fact.” quote by Brian Friel
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““But remember that words are signals, counters. They are not immortal. And it can happen - to use an image you'll understand - it can happen that a civilisation can be imprisoned in a linguistic contour which no longer matches the landscape of... fact.””

Brian Friel

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Language shapes reality, but when it no longer reflects facts, societies can become trapped in outdated narratives.

In simple terms: Words can imprison societies if they don’t match reality.

Key Takeaway

Update language to reflect truth.

Themes

language society truth

Mood

critical thought‑provoking

Type

philosophical analytical

When to use this quote

  • political discourse
  • media reporting
  • education curricula

Key Concepts

semantic drift cultural inertia

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can we ensure language evolves with facts?
  • What role does media play in shaping linguistic contours?
A Different Perspective

Words alone cannot change reality without action.

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