“I am no scientist. I explore the neighbourhood. An infant who has just learned to hold his head up has a frank and forthright way of gazing about him in bewilderment. He hasn't the faintest clue where he is, and he aims to learn. In a couple of years, what he will have learned instead is how to fake it: he'll have the cocksure air of a squatter who has come to feel he owns the place. Some unwonted, taught pride diverts us from our original intent, which is to explore the neighbourhood, view the landscape, to discover at least WHERE it is that we have been so startlingly set down, if we can't learn why.”

Share & Save

Meaning

Not documented yet.

When It Was Said

Not documented yet.

Who It Was Said To

Not documented yet.

Historical Context

Not documented yet.

Source

Not documented yet.

Original Language & Translation

Originally said in English.

Did They Really Say It?

Not documented yet.

Did You Know?

Not documented yet.

About Annie Dillard

American writer and essayist, 1945–present Known for her lyrical, introspective essays on nature, spirituality, and the human experience. Her work often explores the intersection of quiet observation and profound reflection, blending vivid imagery with philosophical depth.

More from Annie Dillard (176 quotes) →
"I am no scientist. I explore the neighbourhood. An infant who has jus…" — Annie Dillard | Daily Quotes