"Another world is not only possible, she is on her way. On a quiet day, I can hear her breathing."
This quote suggests that despite the challenges and injustices we currently face, there remains hope for a better future – one where peace, justice, and equality reign. The "Another world" represents an ideal state, a utopia that is both achievable and desirable. The phrase "she is on her way" implies progress towards this vision, a journey already underway, albeit imperceptible to most at times. The author's use of the feminine pronoun symbolizes not only the collective effort required but also the nurturing and life-giving nature of creating such change. Finally, "On a quiet day, I can hear her breathing" suggests that if we listen carefully, we can sense the promise of this future world, almost tangible in its approach. It's a call to remain hopeful, keep striving, and continue working together towards building a better tomorrow.
"The question that haunts me is: If we win the battle but lose the war, was it worth winning the battle?"
This quote by Arundhati Roy highlights a deep philosophical dilemma often faced in social and political struggles – whether temporary victories, if achieved at the expense of long-term peace or principles, are indeed meaningful or sustainable. It suggests that one should consider not just the immediate gains but also the potential consequences, as the ultimate goal is to win the bigger 'war' for justice and integrity.
"It's a strange kind of paradox that when you are down and out there is less loneliness, somehow you're part of the earth again."
This quote by Arundhati Roy suggests that in times of hardship or adversity, an individual may find a unique sense of connection with the world, overcoming feelings of isolation and loneliness. By experiencing a loss of status or security, one can feel more grounded and integrated into the natural world, as if they are part of the earth itself. This paradoxical realization can offer comfort and perspective during difficult times.
"Power does not corrupt. Fear corrupted perhaps, or a hunger for fame, but power in itself is value-neutral."
Arundhati Roy suggests that power, as an abstract concept, does not inherently possess moral qualities such as corruption or evil. Instead, it's the human emotions and motivations like fear, ambition, or greed associated with power that can lead to corruption or misuse of power. In essence, she posits that power itself is a neutral tool that can be wielded for good or ill based on the intentions and character of those who hold it.
"The truth is more important than the facts."
Arundhati Roy's quote emphasizes the significance of understanding and seeking the underlying essence (truth) behind events, ideas, or information over mere factual details. She suggests that facts can be misleading or incomplete without a comprehensive understanding of their context and implications. In other words, this quote underscores the importance of critical thinking, empathy, and holistic perspective when analyzing or discussing complex issues.
I think the kind of landscape that you grew up in, it lives with you. I don't think it's true of people who've grown up in cities so much; you may love a building, but I don't think that you can love it in the way that you love a tree or a river or the colour of the earth; it's a different kind of love.
- Arundhati Roy
I think people ease into this careerist professionalism, so if you're a writer it's your job to manufacture books as opposed to writing them and to go to festivals and spend your life emotionally invested in reviews or the awards. You have to shrink your universe in a way. To me, it's the opposite.
- Arundhati Roy
Some writers like to boil down headlines of liberal newspapers into fiction, so they say there shouldn't be communal riots, everybody should love each other, there shouldn't be boundaries or fundamentalism. But I think literature is more than that; these are political views which most of us hold anyway.
- Arundhati Roy
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