Eternal Quote by Remy de Gourmont
““Nothing returns, nothing begins anew; it is never the same thing, and yet it seems always the same. For, if the days never return, every moment brings forth new beings whose destiny it will be to create for themselves, in the course of their lives, the same illusions that have companioned and at times illuminated ours. The fabric is eternal; eternal, the embroidery. A universe dies when we die; another is born when a new creature comes to earth with a new sensibility. If, then, it is very true that nothing begins all over again, it is very just to say, too, that everything continues. One may fearlessly advance the latter statement or the former, according to whether one considers the individual or the blending of generations. From this second point of view, everything is coexistent; the same cause produces contradictory, yet logical effects. All the colors and their shades are printed at a single impression, to form the wonderful image we call life.””
About This Quote
Source Book: Le Livre des Quatre, by Remy de Gourmont, 1901
The passage reflects on the cyclical nature of existence, where each moment spawns new beings who recreate familiar patterns, suggesting continuity amidst change.
In simple terms: Life repeats patterns even as new beings arise.
Key Takeaway
Embrace continuity while honoring change.
Themes
continuity
change
generation
illusion
existence
Mood
reflective
thoughtful
philosophical
Type
aphilosophical
reflective
When to use this quote
- personal growth
- creative projects
- intergenerational dialogue
- philosophical contemplation
Key Concepts
cyclical existence
generational overlap
illusionary patterns
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you balance honoring past patterns with forging new paths?
- What role does personal responsibility play in this continuity?
A Different Perspective
It may overlook individual agency in shaping new narratives.
