We Are The Things We Have Lost Quote
Introduction
The quote "We are the things we have lost" is a powerful statement that has resonated with many people over the years. It speaks to the idea that our experiences, both good and bad, shape who we are as individuals. This quote has been used in literature, music, and film to convey this message and to encourage people to embrace their past, even if it includes loss and pain.
Origin of the Quote
The origin of the quote "We are the things we have lost" is unclear, but it has been attributed to a number of different sources. Some believe it was first said by the French writer and philosopher, Jean-Paul Sartre, while others think it may have originated in an ancient proverb. Regardless of its origin, the quote has become a popular and enduring statement about the human experience.
The Meaning of the Quote
The meaning of the quote "We are the things we have lost" is open to interpretation, but it generally refers to the idea that our experiences, particularly those involving loss, shape who we are as individuals. This can include the loss of loved ones, relationships, possessions, or even aspects of ourselves that we have had to give up. These experiences become a part of us, and we carry them with us throughout our lives.
Examples of the Quote in Literature
The quote "We are the things we have lost" has been used in a number of literary works to convey its message. In his novel, The English Patient, Michael Ondaatje writes, "We die containing a richness of lovers and tribes, tastes we have swallowed, bodies we have plunged into and swum up as if rivers of wisdom, characters we have climbed into as if trees, fears we have hidden in as if caves. I wish for all this to be marked on my body when I am dead. I believe in such cartography - to be marked by nature, not just to label ourselves on a map like the names of rich men and women on buildings." This passage speaks to the idea that our experiences, both good and bad, become a part of us and shape who we are as individuals.
Examples of the Quote in Music
The quote "We are the things we have lost" has also been used in a number of songs. In her song, "The Story," singer-songwriter Brandi Carlile sings, "All of these lines across my face / Tell you the story of who I am / So many stories of where I've been / And how I got to where I am." This song speaks to the idea that our experiences, particularly those involving loss, become a part of who we are and shape our identity.
Examples of the Quote in Film
The quote "We are the things we have lost" has also been used in a number of films. In the movie, The Curious Case of Benjamin Button, the character Daisy says, "For what it's worth: It's never too late to be whoever you want to be. I hope you live a life you're proud of, and if you find that you're not, I hope you have the strength to start over." This quote speaks to the idea that our experiences, both good and bad, shape who we are and that we have the power to change our lives if we are not happy with who we have become.
Conclusion
The quote "We are the things we have lost" is a powerful statement that speaks to the idea that our experiences, particularly those involving loss, shape who we are as individuals. This quote has been used in literature, music, and film to convey this message and to encourage people to embrace their past, even if it includes loss and pain. By acknowledging and accepting our experiences, we can become more fully ourselves and live a life we are proud of.
