This Is Water

Can a fish that has never once left the water comprehend the water? That is what familiarity is like. It makes everything seem as though it was always this way, as though it must necessarily be this way. But nothing in this world is a given. This gap gives rise to anger and disillusionment. The result is desolation. It feels almost like fate.

But perhaps things could be different. Perhaps, even if only for a moment, we could see the familiar things around us in a different light. And perhaps we could try to consider others’ perspectives. Of course, breaking free from our usual habits and gathering our thoughts is no easy thing. Even so, it is well worth the attempt. This is probably the most beautiful lesson of liberal humanism.

That is, as long as we are not flung out of the water.

David Foster Wallace. 2005. This Is Water. Translated by Kim Jae-hee. Namusaenggak