All kinds Quote by Agnes de Mille
“What have we got here in America that we believe we cannot live without? We have the most varied and imaginative bathrooms in the world, we have kitchens with the most gimmicks, we have houses with every possible electrical gadget to save ourselves all kinds of trouble - all so that we can have leisure. Leisure, leisure, leisure! So that we don't go mad in the leisure, we have color TV. So that there will never, never, be a moment of silence, we have radio and Muzak. We can't stand silence, because silence includes thinking. And if we thought, we would have to face ourselves.”
About This Quote
The passage critiques modern consumer culture's obsession with constant entertainment and gadgets, arguing that it avoids silence and self‑reflection, leading to superficial leisure.
In simple terms: Critiques endless entertainment that avoids silence and self‑reflection.
Key Takeaway
Seek quiet for genuine self‑knowledge.
Themes
consumerism
leisure
silence
Mood
critical
analytical
Type
sociological
psychological
When to use this quote
- media consumption
- urban living
- mindfulness practice
- design of public spaces
Key Concepts
cultural critique
psychology of distraction
Questions to Reflect On
- How does constant noise affect your thinking?
- What habits can create space for silence?
A Different Perspective
Avoiding silence can prevent necessary introspection and growth.
