Able Quote by Jacques Derrida
“There is a future which is predictable, programmed, scheduled, foreseeable. But there is a future, l'avenir (to come) which refers to someone who comes whose arrival is totally unexpected. For me, that is the real future. That which is totally unpredictable. The Other who comes without my being able to anticipate their arrival. So if there is a real future, beyond the other known future, it is l'avenir in that it is the coming of the Other when I am completely unable to foresee their arrival.”
About This Quote
Source Book: *Of Grammatology* by Jacques Derrida, 1967
The quote contrasts a predictable, scheduled future with an unforeseeable arrival of the Other, emphasizing that true novelty lies beyond our anticipations.
In simple terms: Real future is unpredictable, beyond planned expectations.
Key Takeaway
Embrace uncertainty and the unexpected.
Themes
uncertainty
otherness
future
novelty
Mood
thoughtful
curious
Type
philosophical
reflective
When to use this quote
- creative projects
- personal relationships
- cultural encounters
- strategic planning
Key Concepts
deconstruction
ontological surprise
ethical responsibility
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you prepare for the unexpected?
- What does the 'Other' mean to you?
A Different Perspective
Predictability can limit imagination and preparedness.
![“In general, I try and distinguish between what one calls the Future and “l’avenir” [the ‘to come]. The future is that which – tomorrow, later, next century – will be. There is a future which is predictable, programmed, scheduled, foreseeable. But there is a future, l’avenir (to come) which refers…” quote by Jacques Derrida](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/1c6/jacques-derrida-3948_quote_in-general-i-try-and-distinguish-between_2212403.jpg)
