It is quite true what Philosophy says: that Life must be understood backwards. But that makes one forget the other saying: that it must be lived --forwards. The more one ponders this, the more it comes to mean that life in the temporal existence never becomes quite intelligible, precisely because at no moment can I find complete quiet to take the backward-looking position.

Summary

This quote emphasizes the philosophical idea that understanding life requires looking back on it retrospectively. However, it also highlights the importance of living life in the present and looking forward, suggesting that true understanding cannot be achieved solely through reflection. The quote suggests that the limitations of our temporal existence prevent us from gaining a complete and coherent understanding of life, as we are constantly caught up in the chaos and busyness of the present moment, leaving little room for reflection.

Topics