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Covenant Quote by Stephen R. Donaldson

“Are you a storyteller, Thomas Covenant?" Absently he replied, "I was, once." "And you gave it up? Ah, that is as sad a tale in three words as any you might have told me. But a life without a tale is like a sea without salt. How do you live?" "I live." "Another?" Foamfollower returned. "In two…” quote by Stephen R. Donaldson
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“Are you a storyteller, Thomas Covenant?" Absently he replied, "I was, once." "And you gave it up? Ah, that is as sad a tale in three words as any you might have told me. But a life without a tale is like a sea without salt. How do you live?" "I live." "Another?" Foamfollower returned. "In two words, a story sadder than the first. Say no more - with one word you will make me weep.”

Stephen R. Donaldson

About This Quote

Source Novel: The Chronicles of Thomas Covenant, The Second Chronicles, 1980

Stories give meaning; without them life feels empty, urging us to seek purpose through narrative.

In simple terms: Stories give life meaning.

Key Takeaway

Find and cherish your personal narrative.

Themes

storytelling purpose existence loneliness

Mood

contemplative melancholic hopeful

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • Personal crisis
  • creative writing
  • therapy sessions

Key Concepts

Narrative identity existential meaning human connection

Questions to Reflect On

  • What story defines you?
  • Can a single word convey deep emotion?
A Different Perspective

A life without story feels barren.

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