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What is Time... That you speak of it so subserviently? Are…

“What is Time... That you speak of it so subserviently? Are we to be the slaves of the sun, that second-hand, overrated knob of gilt, or of his sister, that fatuous circle of silver paper? A curse upon their ridiculous dictatorship!” quote by Mervyn Peake
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“What is Time... That you speak of it so subserviently? Are we to be the slaves of the sun, that second-hand, overrated knob of gilt, or of his sister, that fatuous circle of silver paper? A curse upon their ridiculous dictatorship!”

Mervyn Peake

About This Quote

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

Time is portrayed as a tyrannical ruler, questioning our subservience to its cycles.

In simple terms: Time feels like a controlling force.

Key Takeaway

Question how you obey time.

Themes

philosophy existence time perception

Mood

contemplative critical

Type

philosophical poetic

When to use this quote

  • daily routines
  • career planning
  • life milestones

Key Concepts

metaphor determinism freedom

Questions to Reflect On

  • Do you see time as a master or tool?
  • How can you reclaim agency?
A Different Perspective

Time’s influence can be empowering.

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