[T]his is really the only thing: just to sit quietly, like…
![“[T]his is really the only thing: just to sit quietly, like this. They understand of course, they agree, they may even feel it so too, but only with words, only with words, yes that is it - they feel it, but always with only half of themselves, the rest of their being taken up by with other things…” quote by Erich Maria Remarque](https://sms4smile.com/q/i/ed9/erich-maria-remarque-568_quietly_t-his-is-really-the-only-thing-just-to-s_2758806.jpg)
““[T]his is really the only thing: just to sit quietly, like this. They understand of course, they agree, they may even feel it so too, but only with words, only with words, yes that is it - they feel it, but always with only half of themselves, the rest of their being taken up by with other things, they are so divided in themselves that none feels it with his whole essence;””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
People only partially experience truth, divided by distractions; true feeling requires whole attention.
In simple terms: Partial attention limits feeling.
Key Takeaway
Seek full presence.
Themes
mindfulness
communication
authenticity
Mood
contemplative
melancholic
Type
philosophical
literary
When to use this quote
- therapy sessions
- creative work
- relationships
Key Concepts
psychology of attention
existentialism
Questions to Reflect On
- How often are you fully present?
- What divides your attention?
A Different Perspective
Complete focus is often impractical; distractions are inevitable.