One learns a landscape finally not by knowing the name or identity of everything in it, but by perceiving the relationships in it--like that between the sparrow and the twig. The difference between the relationships and the elements is the same as that between written history and a catalog of events. Anonymous
About This Quote

An essay by E. B. White in his book The Elements of Style, “One learns a landscape finally not by knowing the name or identity of everything in it, but by perceiving the relationships in it, like that between the sparrow and the twig. The difference between the relationships and the elements is the same as that between written history and a catalog of events.” Can you remember all the details of every event in your life? Most people could not.

Instead, what you have learned are your relationships with people, places, and things. Not only do these relationships help you remember these events in your life but they also help you understand how to live a positive and successful life.

Source: Crossing Open Ground

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