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... I chanced upon these words from a letter by Van Gogh…

“... I chanced upon these words from a letter by Van Gogh: "Like everyone else, I feel the need of family and friendship, affection and friendly intercourse. I am not made of iron, like a hydrant or a lamp post. Perhaps this is what really counts: to arrive at the core of human feeling, in spite of…” quote by Paul Auster
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““... I chanced upon these words from a letter by Van Gogh: "Like everyone else, I feel the need of family and friendship, affection and friendly intercourse. I am not made of iron, like a hydrant or a lamp post. Perhaps this is what really counts: to arrive at the core of human feeling, in spite of the evidence.””

Paul Auster

About This Quote

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

Human connection matters more than stoic resilience; emotional vulnerability is essential.

In simple terms: Feeling matters more than being tough.

Key Takeaway

Embrace vulnerability and seek genuine relationships.

Themes

friendship family emotional honesty

Mood

reflective introspective

Type

philosophical literary

When to use this quote

  • personal relationships
  • mental health
  • artistic inspiration

Key Concepts

humanism psychology existentialism

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you balance strength and vulnerability?
  • What relationships nurture your core feelings?
A Different Perspective

Being stoic can isolate you from true support.

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