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About this quote

What does it mean?
Human memory fades quickly, even for experiences we believe are permanent.
In plain terms
We forget important things sooner than we expect.
What can you take from it?
Expect your memories to fade and document them while fresh.

Where it applies

  • reflecting on past events
  • keeping journals
  • relationship milestones

Putting it to work

  • write down memories
  • take photos
  • review past notes

Questions to consider

  • What did you forget recently that felt unforgettable?
  • How do you preserve important memories?

Another view

Some memories persist longer than others depending on emotional intensity.

More from Joan Didion

  1. Was there ever in anyone's life span a point free in time, devoid of memory, a night when choice was any more than the sum of all the choices gone before?

    Permalink to quote #8
  2. Writers are always selling somebody out.

    Permalink to quote #10
  3. The writer is always tricking the reader into listening to their dream.

    Permalink to quote #7

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