We must believe that emotion recollected in tranquillity is an inexact formula. For it is neither emotion, nor recollection, nor without distortion of meaning, tranquillity. It is a concentration, and a new thing resulting from the concentration of a very great number of experiences which to the practical and active person would not seem to be experiences at all; it is a concentration which does not happen consciously or of deliberation. These experiences are not recollected and they finally unite in an atmosphere which is tranquil only in that it is a passive attending upon the event.

Summary

This quote explores the concept of "emotion recollected in tranquillity" and highlights its complexities and paradoxes. It suggests that this process is not a straightforward equation involving pure emotion, conscious recollection, and absolute tranquility. Instead, it asserts that it is a unique amalgamation, a concentration of numerous experiences that may not register as experiences to a practical person. It further emphasizes that this concentration occurs unconsciously and without deliberate effort. Ultimately, the resulting atmosphere of tranquillity is described as a passive state of attentiveness to the event, rather than a complete absence of emotion or disturbance.

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