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Absurd Quote by Peter Greenaway

“Human relationships are patterned and cross-patterned and restricted and limited and delimited and caged and freed again by the elaborate conventions, rules and games which we call civilisation. They're often absurd and farcical, and sometimes they're tragic, yet we acknowledge that they are…” quote by Peter Greenaway
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“Human relationships are patterned and cross-patterned and restricted and limited and delimited and caged and freed again by the elaborate conventions, rules and games which we call civilisation. They're often absurd and farcical, and sometimes they're tragic, yet we acknowledge that they are necessary.”

Peter Greenaway

About This Quote

Source Film: The Cook, the Thief, His Wife & Her Lover (1990)

Civilisation’s rules shape and free human connections, often absurdly.

In simple terms: Rules both bind and free relationships.

Key Takeaway

Question societal conventions.

Themes

civilisation relationships absurdity

Mood

analytical philosophical

Type

critical inquisitive

When to use this quote

  • urban life
  • artistic collaborations
  • legal systems

Key Concepts

Social theory philosophy

Questions to Reflect On

  • What conventions limit authentic connection?
  • When do rules empower?
A Different Perspective

Rules can be oppressive.

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