Skip to content

Art Quote by Machado de Assis

“Observe now with what skill, with what art, I make the biggest transition in this book. Observe: my delirium began in the presence of Virgilia; Virigilia was the great sin of my youth; there is no youth without childhood; childhood presupposes birth; and so we arrive, effortlessly, at October 20…” quote by Machado de Assis
Download Open image
““Observe now with what skill, with what art, I make the biggest transition in this book. Observe: my delirium began in the presence of Virgilia; Virigilia was the great sin of my youth; there is no youth without childhood; childhood presupposes birth; and so we arrive, effortlessly, at October 20, 1805, the date of my birth.””

Machado de Assis

About This Quote

Source Novel: Quincas Borba, 1891

He reflects on the intertwined nature of youth, childhood, and destiny, linking personal history to a specific birth date.

In simple terms: Youth, childhood, and fate are connected.

Key Takeaway

Recognize how early experiences shape your life path.

Themes

philosophy memory destiny

Mood

contemplative nostalgic

Type

literary philosophical

When to use this quote

  • personal reflection
  • historical analysis
  • literary critique
  • identity formation

Key Concepts

existentialism temporal continuity

Questions to Reflect On

  • What childhood memories influence your present self?
  • How does recognizing patterns affect future choices?
A Different Perspective

Interpretations may vary across cultures.

4.9 out of 5 (4 ratings)

More by Machado de Assis

Explore all 64 Machado de Assis quotes

More Art quotes

Browse all 48,643 Art quotes