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Ghosts, we hope, may be always with us - that is, never…

“Ghosts, we hope, may be always with us - that is, never too far out of the reach of fancy. On the whole, it would seem they adapt themselves well, perhaps better than we do, to changing world conditions - they enlarge their domain, shift their hold on our nerves, and, dispossessed of one habitat…” quote by Elizabeth Bowen
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“Ghosts, we hope, may be always with us - that is, never too far out of the reach of fancy. On the whole, it would seem they adapt themselves well, perhaps better than we do, to changing world conditions - they enlarge their domain, shift their hold on our nerves, and, dispossessed of one habitat, set up house in another. The universal battiness of our century looks like providing them with a propitious climate.”

Elizabeth Bowen

About This Quote

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

Ghosts symbolize lingering memories and anxieties that adapt to societal changes, staying within reach of imagination.

In simple terms: Ghosts are lingering worries that adapt to change.

Key Takeaway

Recognize and address persistent anxieties.

Themes

memory change anxiety imagination adaptation

Mood

reflective melancholic thoughtful

Type

literary philosophical

When to use this quote

  • personal reflection
  • urban development
  • mental health coping
  • creative writing

Key Concepts

psychology cultural symbolism existentialism

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do personal fears evolve with society?
  • What role does imagination play in coping?
A Different Perspective

Ghosts may be metaphorical, not literal, limiting practical application.

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