Skip to content

Carbon dioxide Quote by Don DeLillo

“I have a deep thought for you. Science fiction is just beginning to catch up with the Old Testament. See artificial nitrates run off into the rivers and oceans. See carbon dioxide melt the polar ice caps. See the world's mineral reserves dwindle. See war, famine and plague. See barbaric hordes…” quote by Don DeLillo
Download Open image
““I have a deep thought for you. Science fiction is just beginning to catch up with the Old Testament. See artificial nitrates run off into the rivers and oceans. See carbon dioxide melt the polar ice caps. See the world's mineral reserves dwindle. See war, famine and plague. See barbaric hordes defile the temple of virgins. See wild stallions mount the prairie dogs. I said science fiction but I guess I meant science. Anyway there's some kind of mythical and/or historic circle-thing being completed here. But I keep smiling. I keep telling myself there's nothing to worry about as long as the youth of America knows what's going on. Brains, brawn, good teeth. tallness.””

Don DeLillo

About This Quote

Source Novel: White Noise, 1985

The passage links environmental collapse and societal decay, warning that science fiction predicts real crises, urging vigilance.

In simple terms: Science fiction predicts real problems; stay aware.

Key Takeaway

Take action on environmental issues.

Themes

environment technology future society

Mood

cautionary thoughtful

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • policy making
  • education
  • activism
  • media critique

Key Concepts

climate change resource scarcity media influence

Questions to Reflect On

  • What real‑world steps can you take?
  • How does fiction shape perception?
A Different Perspective

Optimism may ignore urgency.

3.0 out of 5 (10 ratings)

More by Don DeLillo

Explore all 699 Don DeLillo quotes

More Carbon dioxide quotes

Browse all 263 Carbon dioxide quotes