Sometimes I have the feeling that we're in one room with…
““Sometimes I have the feeling that we're in one room with two opposite doors and each of us holds the handle of one door, one of us flicks an eyelash and the other is already behind his door, and now the first one has but to utter a word ad immediately the second one has closed his door behind him and can no longer be seen. He's sure to open the door again for it's a room which perhaps one cannot leave. If only the first one were not precisely like the second, if he were calm, if he would only pretend not to look at the other, if he slowly set the room in order as though it were a room like any other; but instead he does exactly the same as the other at his door, sometimes even both are behind the doors and the the beautiful room is empty.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The passage describes two people in a room with opposite doors, each holding a handle, where one’s action closes the other's door, creating a cycle of missed connections and isolation.
In simple terms: Two people hold opposite doors; one’s move closes the other’s, leading to isolation.
Key Takeaway
Recognize how actions can unintentionally shut others out.
Themes
communication
isolation
perception
choice
relationships
Mood
thoughtful
introspective
Type
philosophical
literary
When to use this quote
- social gatherings
- conflict resolution
- team projects
- personal relationships
Key Concepts
interdependence
timing
misunderstanding
existentialism
Questions to Reflect On
- What assumptions do you make about others’ motives?
- How can you keep doors open for dialogue?
A Different Perspective
Assuming intent may misinterpret others’ actions.