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Attachment Quote by Thomas Mann

“Space, like time, engenders forgetfulness; but it does so by setting us bodily free from our surroundings and giving us back our primitive, unattached state ... Time, we say, is Lethe; but change of air is a similar draught, and, if it works less thoroughly, does so more quickly.” quote by Thomas Mann
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““Space, like time, engenders forgetfulness; but it does so by setting us bodily free from our surroundings and giving us back our primitive, unattached state ... Time, we say, is Lethe; but change of air is a similar draught, and, if it works less thoroughly, does so more quickly.””

Thomas Mann

About This Quote

Source Book: The Magic Mountain by Thomas Mann, 1924

The passage suggests that both space and time free us from our immediate surroundings, returning us to a more primitive, detached state, yet this freedom can also cause forgetfulness.

In simple terms: Space and time free us but also cause forgetfulness.

Key Takeaway

Balance freedom with mindful awareness.

Themes

freedom memory detachment

Mood

thoughtful philosophical

Type

literary reflective

When to use this quote

  • travel
  • meditation
  • creative work
  • life transitions

Key Concepts

existentialism psychology

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does changing environment affect your memory?
  • What practices keep you grounded?
A Different Perspective

Too much detachment may lead to loss of identity or purpose.

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