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Bridges Quote by Anais Nin

“The city was asleep on its right side and shaking with violent nightmares. Long puffs of snoring came out of the chimneys. Its feet were sticking out because the clouds did not cover it altogether. There was a hole in them and the white feathers were falling out. The city had untied all its…” quote by Anais Nin
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“The city was asleep on its right side and shaking with violent nightmares. Long puffs of snoring came out of the chimneys. Its feet were sticking out because the clouds did not cover it altogether. There was a hole in them and the white feathers were falling out. The city had untied all its bridges like so many buttons to feel at ease. Wherever there was a lamplight the city scratched itself until it went out.”

Anais Nin

About This Quote

Source Short story: Unknown collection, early 20th century fiction

The city is anthropomorphized, restless and chaotic, reflecting inner turmoil and fragmented identity.

In simple terms: City as restless mind.

Key Takeaway

Observe inner chaos.

Themes

urban anxiety dreamscape identity fragmentation nightmares

Mood

melancholic surreal thoughtful

Type

literary inspirational

When to use this quote

  • nighttime city walks
  • dream journaling
  • creative writing
  • urban exploration

Key Concepts

Surrealism psychological metaphor

Questions to Reflect On

  • What does the city symbolize for you?
  • How do you calm inner turbulence?
A Different Perspective

Interpretation may be overly abstract.

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