Denotation by means of sounds and markings is a remarkable abstraction. Three letters designate God for me; several lines a million things. How easy becomes the manipulation of the universe here, how evident the concentration of the intellectual world! Language is the dynamics of the spiritual realm. One word of command moves armies; the word Liberty entire nations.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Language abstracts reality into symbols that manage complex things easily. Words drive armies and nations.
- In plain terms
- Words simplify the world and give power to move people.
- What can you take from it?
- Recognize the power of language to shape reality.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- What words move you?
- How does language limit thought?
Another view
Abstraction can also obscure truth and create distance.
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