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Symmetry suggests one myth, or significance: the drinking…

“Symmetry suggests one myth, or significance: the drinking of writers coming from too much concentration, in solitude, upon feelings expressed for or even about possibly indifferent people, people who are absent or perhaps dead, or unborn; the suicide of psychiatrists coming from too much…” quote by Robert Pinsky
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““Symmetry suggests one myth, or significance: the drinking of writers coming from too much concentration, in solitude, upon feelings expressed for or even about possibly indifferent people, people who are absent or perhaps dead, or unborn; the suicide of psychiatrists coming from too much attention, in most intimate contact, concentrated upon the feelings of people toward whom one may feel indifferent, people who are certain, sooner or later, to die...””

Robert Pinsky

About This Quote

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

The quote reflects on how intense focus and isolation can lead creators to obsessive concern for indifferent or absent subjects, and how over‑attention can drive professionals to despair.

In simple terms: Intense focus can cause unhealthy obsession and burnout.

Key Takeaway

Balance focus with connection.

Themes

creativity solitude mental health attention obsession

Mood

reflective melancholic

Type

philosophical critical

When to use this quote

  • writing retreats
  • therapy sessions
  • research labs
  • creative collaborations

Key Concepts

psychology artistic process burnout

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does solitude affect your creative output?
  • What limits should you set on emotional investment?
A Different Perspective

Too much isolation may stifle empathy and lead to alienation.

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