Animal Quote by Virginia Morell
““In the very earliest times, when both people and animals lived on earth, a person could become an animal if he wanted to, and an animal could become a human being. Sometimes they were people and sometimes animals and there was no difference. All spoke the same language. That was the time when words were like magic. NALUNGLAQ, A NETSILIK ESKIMO””
About This Quote
Source Book: The Secret Life of Language by Virginia Morell, 2015
Early humans and animals were thought to be interchangeable, sharing a common language that made words seem magical, illustrating fluid identities and the power of language.
In simple terms: Early beings could shift between human and animal, using a shared magical language.
Key Takeaway
Recognize language’s role in shaping identity.
Themes
identity
language
mythology
transformation
Mood
reflective
intriguing
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- storytelling
- cultural rituals
- education
- creative writing
Key Concepts
anthropology
cognitive linguistics
mythic narratives
Questions to Reflect On
- How does language influence our sense of self?
- What does “words as magic” mean today?
A Different Perspective
Modern perspectives may view such fluidity as metaphorical rather than literal.
