Time is the river on which the leaves of our thoughts are carried into oblivion

Time is the river on which the leaves of our thoughts are carried into oblivion

Doris Lessing, a prolific and influential writer known for her insightful and thought-provoking works, often explored the theme of time and its impact on human consciousness. In her writing, Lessing frequently delved into the idea that time is a powerful force that shapes our thoughts and memories, carrying them away like leaves on a river into the depths of oblivion.

The quote, “Time is the river on which the leaves of our thoughts are carried into oblivion,” encapsulates Lessing’s belief that our thoughts and experiences are fleeting, constantly being swept away by the relentless current of time. Just as leaves are carried downstream and eventually disappear from sight, so too do our thoughts and memories fade into the past, becoming lost in the vast expanse of time.

Lessing’s exploration of this concept can be seen in many of her works, particularly in her novel “The Golden Notebook.” In this novel, the protagonist, Anna Wulf, grapples with the passage of time and the ways in which it shapes her identity and sense of self. As she reflects on her past experiences and relationships, Anna realizes that time has a way of erasing memories and blurring the lines between reality and fiction.

Through her writing, Lessing challenges readers to confront the ephemeral nature of time and the inevitability of oblivion. She reminds us that our thoughts and experiences, no matter how significant or profound, are ultimately fleeting and transient, destined to be carried away by the river of time.