Broken glass Quote by George Saunders
““Why was it, she sometimes wondered, that in dreams we can't do the simplest things? Like a crying puppy is standing on some broken glass and you want to pick it up and brush the shards off its pads but you can't because you're balancing a ball on your head. Or you're driving and there's this old guy on crutches and you go, to Mr. Feder, your Driver's Ed teacher, Should I swerve? And he's like, Uh, probably. But then you hear this big clunk and Feder makes a negative mark in his book.””
About This Quote
Source Short story: “The New Me” in Tenth of December, 2013
Dreams often distort reality, making simple actions feel impossible, reflecting anxiety and fragmented focus in waking life.
In simple terms: Dreams scramble simple tasks, showing inner turmoil.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and address anxiety that blocks action.
Themes
anxiety
dreams
perception
decisionmaking
Mood
confused
reflective
thoughtful
Type
literary
psychological
When to use this quote
- nighttime reflection
- stressful decision
- creative problem solving
- therapy sessions
Key Concepts
psychology
cognitive distortion
symbolism
Questions to Reflect On
- What simple action feels impossible to you right now?
- How can you ground yourself when anxiety clouds decisions?
A Different Perspective
Dream logic can mislead, but waking clarity can override it.
