Fast Quote by Margaret Atwood
““Walking was not fast enough so we ran. Running was not fast enough, so we galloped. Galloping was not fast enough, so we sailed. Sailing was not fast enough, so we rolled merrily along on long metal tracks. Long metal tracks were not fast enough, so we drove. Driving was not fast enough, so we flew. Flying isn't fast enough, not fast enough for us. We want to get there faster. Get where? Wherever we are not. But a human soul can go only as fast as a man can walk, they used to say. In that case, where are all the souls? Left behind. They wander here and there, slowly, dim lights flickering in the marshes at night, looking for us. But they're not nearly fast enough, not for us, we're way ahead of them, they'll never catch up. That's why we can go so fast: our souls don't weigh us down.””
About This Quote
Source Speech: Interview, Margaret Atwood, 2015
Human ambition drives relentless pursuit of speed, yet our souls remain bound to our physical limits, leaving many behind.
In simple terms: We chase speed, but our souls stay slow.
Key Takeaway
Recognize the limits of speed and value slower journeys.
Themes
ambition
technology
spirituality
progress
loneliness
Mood
reflective
melancholic
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- urban commuting
- space travel
- personal growth
- environmental impact
Key Concepts
transcendence
human nature
modernity
Questions to Reflect On
- How does rapid progress affect our inner lives?
- What can we learn from slower, reflective practices?
A Different Perspective
Speed can cause neglect of deeper connections and ethical considerations.
