And under all this vast illusion of the cosmopolitan…
““And under all this vast illusion of the cosmopolitan planet, with its empires and its Reuter's agency, the real life of man goes on concerned with this tree or that temple, with this harvest or that drinking-song, totally uncomprehended, totally untouched. And it watches from its splendid parochialism, possibly with a smile of amusement, motor-car civilization going its triumphant way, outstripping time, consuming space, seeing all and seeing nothing, roaring on at last to the capture of the solar system, only to find the sun cockney and the stars suburban.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Modern civilization’s grand ambitions overlook simple, timeless human concerns, leading to a paradox of progress and emptiness.
In simple terms: Progress can ignore basic human needs.
Key Takeaway
Balance technological advancement with simple joys.
Themes
civilization
progress
paradox
humanity
Mood
wry
critical
Type
literary
philosophical
When to use this quote
- urban planning
- education
- cultural preservation
- personal reflection
Key Concepts
cosmopolitanism
illusion
simplicity
spiritual emptiness
Questions to Reflect On
- What simple pleasures ground you amid modern life?
- How can we integrate tradition with innovation?
A Different Perspective
Technology may also bring genuine benefits.