Every time I came to the end of a block and stepped off…
““Every time I came to the end of a block and stepped off the goddam curb, I had this feeling that I'd never get to the other side of the street. I thought I'd just go down, down, down, and nobody'd ever see me again. Boy, did it scare me. You can't imagine. I started sweating like a bastard – my whole shirt and underwear and everything. Then I started doing something else. Every time I'd get to the end of a block I'd make believe I was talking to my brother Allie. I'd say to him, "Allie, don't let me disappear. Allie, don't let me disappear. Allie, don't let me disappear. Please, Allie." And then when I'd reach the other side of the street without disappearing, I'd thank him.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The narrator confronts overwhelming anxiety when crossing streets, using a mental mantra to stay present and survive the fear of disappearing.
In simple terms: Anxiety can be managed by repeating a calming phrase.
Key Takeaway
Use a personal mantra to ground yourself in stressful moments.
Themes
anxiety
mental health
coping mechanisms
inner dialogue
Mood
fearful
determined
relieved
Type
personal
motivational
psychological
When to use this quote
- walking alone
- public spaces
- mental health crises
- performance anxiety
Key Concepts
psychology
mindfulness
self‑talk
Questions to Reflect On
- What personal mantra could help you in a stressful situation?
- How does speaking to an imagined other affect your fear?
A Different Perspective
The technique may not work for everyone and can mask deeper issues.