Beast Quote by Norman Mailer
“We are in love with the word. We are proud of it. The word precedes the formation of the state. The word comes to us from every avatar of early human existence. As writers, we are obliged more than others to keep our lives attached to the primitive power of the word. From India, out of the Vedas, we still hear: On the spoken word, all the gods depend, all beasts and men; in the world live all creatures...The word is the name of the divine world.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: “The Word and the State” by Norman Mailer, 1975
Language shapes reality; it precedes institutions and carries divine weight, urging writers to honor its primal power.
In simple terms: Words create reality and hold sacred power.
Key Takeaway
Respect and wield language consciously.
Themes
language
creation
divinity
writing
culture
Mood
reverent
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
literary
When to use this quote
- literary criticism
- teaching writing
- public speaking
- personal reflection
Key Concepts
semiotics
mythology
power dynamics
creative responsibility
Questions to Reflect On
- How does language influence your identity?
- In what ways can writers preserve the sacredness of words?
A Different Perspective
Language alone cannot change structural oppression without action.
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