Language Quote by Anaïs Nin
““You know, Lillian, someday I will sit down and write a little dictionary for you, a little Chinese dictionary. In it I will put down all the interpretations of what is said to you, the right interpretation, that is: the one that is not meant to injure, not meant to humiliate or accuse or doubt. And whenever something is said to you, you will look in my little dictionary to make sure, before you get desperate, that you have understood what is said to you.””
About This Quote
Source Novel: Henry and June, 1971
A promise to provide a safe, clear interpretation of others' words to protect the listener from misunderstanding and emotional harm.
In simple terms: Offering a protective guide to understand others' words.
Key Takeaway
Create your own mental dictionary of clarifying questions.
Themes
communication
empathy
self‑protection
interpretation
Mood
thoughtful
protective
Type
advice
reflective
philosophical
When to use this quote
- personal relationships
- conflict resolution
- mental health
- cross‑cultural dialogue
Key Concepts
psychology
language
power dynamics
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you verify the intent behind someone's words?
- What safeguards can you build to avoid misinterpretation?
A Different Perspective
Interpretations can still be biased; the listener must also question the interpreter.
