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Acting Quote by Geoff Nicholson

“Modern literary theory sees a similarity between walking and writing that I find persuasive: words inscribe a text in the same way that a walk inscribes space. In The practicse of Everyday Life, Michel de Certeau writes, 'The act of walking is a process of appropriation of the topographical system…” quote by Geoff Nicholson
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“Modern literary theory sees a similarity between walking and writing that I find persuasive: words inscribe a text in the same way that a walk inscribes space. In The practicse of Everyday Life, Michel de Certeau writes, 'The act of walking is a process of appropriation of the topographical system on the part of the pedestrian; it is a special acting-out of the place...and it implies relations among differentiated positions.' I think this is a fancy way of saying that writing is one way of making the world our own, and that walking is another.”

Geoff Nicholson

About This Quote

Source Book: The Practice of Everyday Life by Michel de Certeau, 1980

Walking and writing both claim space, turning movement or language into personal ownership of the world.

In simple terms: Both walking and writing let us make the world ours.

Key Takeaway

Use walking to inspire writing and vice versa.

Themes

creativity place identity movement

Mood

inspired thoughtful

Type

philosophical literary

When to use this quote

  • urban exploration
  • journaling
  • creative retreats
  • travel writing
  • academic research

Key Concepts

spatial theory narrative construction

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does walking change your writing style?
  • Can you write without moving?
A Different Perspective

Physical activity may not always translate to literary insight.

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