To plot is to live. […] We start out lives in chaos, in…
![“To plot is to live. […] We start out lives in chaos, in babble. As we surge up into the world, we try to devise a shape, a plan. There is dignity in this. Your whole life is a plot, a scheme, a diagram. It is a failed scheme but that's not the point. To plot is to affirm life, to seek shape and…” quote by Don DeLillo](https://sms4smile.com/q/i/8f8/don-delillo-294_after-death_to-plot-is-to-live-we-start-out-lives-in_1610967.jpg)
“To plot is to live. […] We start out lives in chaos, in babble. As we surge up into the world, we try to devise a shape, a plan. There is dignity in this. Your whole life is a plot, a scheme, a diagram. It is a failed scheme but that's not the point. To plot is to affirm life, to seek shape and control. Even after death, most particularly after death, the search continues. Burial rites are an attempt to complete the scheme, in ritual. Picture a state funeral, Jack. It is all precision, detail, order, design. The nation holds its breath. - (WN 292)”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Human beings create narratives to impose order on chaos, seeking dignity through planning and ritual even beyond death.
In simple terms: We make plans to give life meaning and control.
Key Takeaway
Embrace intentional design in life.
Themes
meaning
order
ritual
mortality
Mood
reflective
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- Personal goal setting
- urban planning
- funeral ceremonies
- political speeches
- artistic storytelling
Key Concepts
Narrative construction
existential affirmation
cultural rites
Questions to Reflect On
- How does planning shape your sense of purpose?
- What rituals help you cope with uncertainty?
A Different Perspective
Plans can be fragile and may fail, yet their value lies in the act of creation.