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Language Quote by Haruki Murakami

“Sometimes we don't need words. Rather, it's words that need us. If we were no longer here, words would lose their whole function. They would end up as words that are never spoken, and words that aren't spoken are no longer words” quote by Haruki Murakami
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“Sometimes we don't need words. Rather, it's words that need us. If we were no longer here, words would lose their whole function. They would end up as words that are never spoken, and words that aren't spoken are no longer words”

Haruki Murakami

About This Quote

Source Novel: “Kafka on the Shore”, 2002

Words depend on humans; without us, language loses purpose and becomes unspoken.

In simple terms: Words need people to have meaning.

Key Takeaway

Value human communication.

Themes

language existence communication

Mood

contemplative poetic

Type

literary philosophical

When to use this quote

  • teaching
  • writing
  • public speaking

Key Concepts

philosophy semiotics humanism

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does silence shape meaning?
  • What role does language play in identity?
A Different Perspective

Language can exist without immediate use.

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