Broken Quote by Brian Selznick
““Did you ever notice that all machines are made for some reason?" he asked Isabelle. "They are built to make you laugh, like the mouse here, or to tell the time, like clocks, or to fill you with wonder like the automaton. Maybe that's why a broken machine always makes me a little sad, because it isn't able to do what it was made to do." Isabelle picked up the mouse, wound it again, and set it down. "Maybe it's the same with people," Hugo continued. "If you lose your purpose...it's like you're broken.””
About This Quote
Source Novel: The Invention of Hugo Cabret, 2007
Purpose gives machines and people meaning; when that purpose is lost, they feel broken and cause.
In simple terms: Purpose drives function and fulfillment.
Key Takeaway
Find and nurture purpose.
Themes
purpose
meaning
existential
technology
Mood
thoughtful
inquisitive
empathetic
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- career counseling
- education
- creative projects
- technology design
Key Concepts
philosophy
psychology
humanism
Questions to Reflect On
- What gives you a sense of purpose?
- How do you cope when purpose feels lost?
A Different Perspective
Purpose can be fluid; rigid expectations may cause distress.
