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Time Quote by David Foster Wallace

“From that day, whether I could articulate it satisfactorily or not,' Day says, holding the knee of the leg just crossed, 'I understood on an intuitive level why people killed themselves. If I had to go for any length of time with that feeling I'd surely kill myself.' 'Time in the shadow of the…” quote by David Foster Wallace
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““From that day, whether I could articulate it satisfactorily or not,' Day says, holding the knee of the leg just crossed, 'I understood on an intuitive level why people killed themselves. If I had to go for any length of time with that feeling I'd surely kill myself.' 'Time in the shadow of the wing of the thing too big to see, rising.””

David Foster Wallace

About This Quote

Source Interview: The David Foster Wallace Archive, 2005

The speaker describes an intuitive, overwhelming despair that feels like a looming, unseen threat, leading to thoughts of suicide if the feeling persists.

In simple terms: Intense despair feels like an unseen, crushing force.

Key Takeaway

Recognize and address deep emotional pain early.

Themes

mental health despair suicidal ideation

Mood

somber urgent

Type

warning personal

When to use this quote

  • therapy sessions
  • support groups
  • crisis hotlines

Key Concepts

psychology existential crisis

Questions to Reflect On

  • What triggers this feeling for you?
  • How can you seek help before it becomes unbearable?
A Different Perspective

The metaphor may obscure concrete causes of distress.

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