Thousands stand and chant. Around them in the world, people ride escalators going up and sneak secret glances at the faces coming down. People dangle teabags over hot water in white cups. Cars run silently on the autobahns, streaks of painted light. People sit at desks and stare at office walls. They smell their shirts and drop them in the hamper. People bind themselves into numbered seats and fly across time zones and high cirrus and deep night, knowing there is something they've forgotten to do.

Summary

This quote portrays the modern human experience as one filled with mundane, repetitive actions and a sense of detachment. The imagery of people going about their daily routines, such as chanting, riding escalators, making tea, working at desks, and traveling, suggests a lack of purpose and a disconnection from their true desires. Despite engaging in these activities, there remains an underlying feeling of emptiness and a nagging sense that there is something important yet forgotten. The quote hints at the dissatisfaction and longing for a deeper connection or meaning in life that many individuals may experience.

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