Tillie Olsen: 'The clock talked loud. I threw it away, it scared me what it talked.'

The clock talked loud. I threw it away, it scared me what it talked.

In Tillie Olsen's poignant quote, "The clock talked loud. I threw it away, it scared me what it talked," one can perceive a straightforward representation of an individual's reaction to the overwhelming noise and constant reminders of time ticking away. The intrinsic meaning lies in the fear and unease provoked by the incessant chatter of the clock, compelling the narrator to rid themselves of its presence. This quote is significant as it highlights the way in which the concept of time can elicit emotions of anxiety and apprehension. However, let us delve deeper into the underlying philosophical concept associated with this quote, which can bring a new layer of interest and contemplation to the narrative.Time, as a construct, has always fascinated and perplexed human beings. It governs our daily lives, dictates our routines, and denotes the passage of our existence. The clock symbolizes this embodiment of time, an unrelenting reminder that moments are fleeting and irreversible. It is a constant presence, relentlessly ticking away, imposing a sense of urgency and pressure upon our pursuits. In throwing away the clock, the narrator desires to detach themselves from the burden of time and the constraints it imposes on their life.However, in examining this quote from a philosophical standpoint, one may be inclined to consider the concept of time as not merely an external force to be feared and discarded, but rather an internal construct shaped by our perceptions and mental constructs. The clock's loud talk, instead of being an oppressive presence, can be seen as a prod to confront our fears and reevaluate our relationship with time. It brings us face to face with the transience of life and calls upon us to embrace the present moment rather than being consumed by apprehensions about the future or remorse over the past.By intersecting the philosophical concept of time with the quote, we invite contemplation on how our perception of time shapes our experiences and emotions. The clock becomes a metaphor for our own internal dialogue, the constant chatter of thoughts and worries that can hinder our ability to fully appreciate the present. In this alternative interpretation, throwing away the clock represents the desire to silence the noise within, to cultivate mindfulness and presence, ultimately transforming our relationship with the passage of time.In contrast to the initial straightforward interpretation, which focuses on fear and avoidance, the philosophical concept suggests an embrace of time, though it acknowledges the need for balance and introspection. It prompts us to consider the meaning we ascribe to time and how we can navigate its passing without fear or unease. We must strive to find harmony between the urgency of time's passage and the serenity found in being fully present in each moment.In conclusion, Tillie Olsen's quote, "The clock talked loud. I threw it away, it scared me what it talked," embodies the anxieties and unease we may feel towards the passing of time. However, by introducing a philosophical concept rooted in the understanding that time is shaped by our perception and internal constructs, the quote undergoes a transformation. It becomes an invitation to confront our fears and examine our relationship with time, encouraging us to find harmony between embracing the present and acknowledging the temporality of our existence. Rather than discarding the clock out of fear, we are invited to listen to its talk, understand our own internal dialogue, and ultimately find solace within the rhythm of time.