Alberto-caeiro Quote by Álvaro de Campos
““I consider a dream like I consider a shadow,” answered Caeiro, with his usual divine, unexpected promptitude. “A shadow is real, but it’s less real than a rock. A dream is real — if it weren’t, it wouldn’t be a dream — but less real than a thing. That’s what being real is like.””
About This Quote
Source Poem: “The Book of Disquiet” by Fernando Pessoa, 1913
Dreams and shadows are less tangible than solid objects, yet they reveal deeper aspects of reality.
In simple terms: Dreams feel real but are less solid than things.
Key Takeaway
Recognize the fluid nature of reality.
Themes
philosophy
perception
existentialism
Mood
thoughtful
introspective
Type
philosophical
poetic
When to use this quote
- creative writing
- self‑reflection
- artistic inspiration
- philosophical debate
Key Concepts
ontology
subjectivity
metaphor
Questions to Reflect On
- What is more real, a dream or a memory?
- How do shadows shape our perception?
A Different Perspective
The analogy may oversimplify complex reality.
