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Face to face Quote by Wislawa Szymborska

“They're both convinced that a sudden passion joined them. Such certainty is beautiful, but uncertainty is more beautiful still. Since they'd never met before, they're sure that there'd been nothing between them. But what's the word from the streets, staircases, hallways-- perhaps they've passed by…” quote by Wislawa Szymborska
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““They're both convinced that a sudden passion joined them. Such certainty is beautiful, but uncertainty is more beautiful still. Since they'd never met before, they're sure that there'd been nothing between them. But what's the word from the streets, staircases, hallways-- perhaps they've passed by each other a million times? I want to ask them if they don't remember-- a moment face to face in some revolving door? perhaps a "sorry" muttered in a crowd? a curt "wrong number" caught in the receiver? but I know the answer. No, they don't remember. They'd be amazed to hear that Chance has been toying with them now for years. Not quite ready yet to become their Destiny, it pushed them close, drove them apart, it barred their path, stifling a laugh, and then leaped aside. There were signs and signals, even if they couldn't read them yet. Perhaps three years ago or just last Tuesday a certain leaf fluttered from one shoulder to another? Something was dropped and then picked up. Who knows, maybe the ball that vanished into childhood's thicket? There were doorknobs and doorbells where one touch had covered another beforehand. Suitcases checked and standing side by side. One night, perhaps, the same dream, grown hazy by morning. Every beginning is only a sequel, after all, and the book of events is always open halfway through.””

Wislawa Szymborska

About This Quote

Source Poem: Unnamed, likely from a collection of Szymborska’s later works, 1990s

The passage reflects on how chance encounters and unnoticed signals shape relationships, suggesting destiny unfolds through subtle, repeated moments rather than grand, conscious decisions.

In simple terms: Chance and small moments guide love more than dramatic destiny.

Key Takeaway

Notice subtle signs and trust the unfolding path.

Themes

love chance destiny memory connection

Mood

reflective nostalgic hopeful

Type

philosophical poetic

When to use this quote

  • first meetings
  • missed connections
  • repeated encounters
  • dreams
  • daily life

Key Concepts

fate serendipity recognition time perception

Questions to Reflect On

  • Do you recognize any small signs that have shaped your relationships?
  • How might you create intentional moments rather than waiting for chance?
A Different Perspective

It may romanticize randomness, overlooking personal agency and intentional effort.

4.5 out of 5 (8 ratings)

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