Julio Cortazar: 'Only in dreams, in poetry, in play do we sometimes arrive at what we were before we were this thing that, who knows, we are.'

Only in dreams, in poetry, in play do we sometimes arrive at what we were before we were this thing that, who knows, we are.

The quote by Julio Cortazar, "Only in dreams, in poetry, in play do we sometimes arrive at what we were before we were this thing that, who knows, we are," encapsulates the transformative power of imagination and creativity. On the surface, it suggests that these realms allow us to reconnect with something essential within ourselves that may have been lost or forgotten. The quote speaks to the idea that through dreams, poetry, and play, we can momentarily transcend our current limitations and tap into the deeper layers of our being.At first glance, this quote may appear to be a simple reflection on the liberating nature of dreams, poetry, and play. Dreams, as we all know, often take us on wild and fantastical journeys, allowing our minds to roam freely without the constraints of reality. Poetry, with its ability to capture emotions and experiences in elusive and captivating ways, taps into a similar sense of transcendence. And play, whether through games, art, or daydreaming, lets us explore new possibilities and engage with our imagination.However, there is an unexpected philosophical concept hidden within Cortazar's words: the notion that there is a part of us that exists independently of our current state of being. This notion implies the existence of an essential self, something that predates our current existence and may transcend our current understanding of self-identity. It suggests that beneath the layers of societal expectations, personal experiences, and conditioning, there is a core essence waiting to be rediscovered.This concept challenges our traditional understanding of identity and prompts us to reflect on the nature of our existence. Are we merely the sum of our experiences, or is there something deeper that defines us? Cortazar's quote suggests that our true essence lies in the realm of dreams, poetry, and play. It is in these spaces where we can momentarily shed the roles we play in our daily lives and become more in touch with our authentic selves.In contrast to the mundane routines and responsibilities that often define our waking lives, the realms of dreams, poetry, and play allow us to tap into the wellspring of our creativity. They enable us to explore the depths of our imagination, to challenge boundaries, and to ask questions that might otherwise remain unasked. Through dreams, we may gain insight into our deepest desires and fears. Through poetry, we can distill complex emotions into words, giving them shape and substance. And through play, we can break free from expectations, allowing our minds to wander and explore without limitations.While dreams, poetry, and play may seem like mere frivolities to some, they provide us with a glimpse of what lies beyond the confines of our day-to-day lives. They remind us that, beneath the surface, there is a world of infinite possibilities waiting to be discovered. They allow us to connect with our inner child, the part of us that is unburdened by worries and responsibilities. Through engaging with these realms, we can find ourselves in moments of pure joy, liberation, and self-expression.In conclusion, Julio Cortazar's quote serves as a reminder of the power of dreams, poetry, and play in reconnecting with our true essence. These creative realms offer us the opportunity to transcend our current limitations, enabling us to tap into the depths of our imagination and rediscover the authentic self that may be hidden beneath societal expectations and personal experiences. By embracing these realms, we can embark on a journey of self-discovery and unlock the boundless potential that lies within us all.