“We are always pursued by our origins. ”
— Umberto Eco
Simplified Meaning:
Our past, where we come from, and our childhood experiences shape who we are today and continue to influence our lives. Imagine a tree: its roots are what anchors it, providing strength and nourishment. Without these roots, the tree wouldn't stand tall or survive strong winds. Similarly, the experiences and the environment we grew up in act like these roots, affecting our decisions, behaviors, and outlook on life. For example, if someone grew up in a family that always stressed the importance of education, that person might value learning and seek knowledge throughout their life. Even if they move to a new place or start fresh in a different career, this early lesson about the importance of education will still guide their behavior. Understanding this can help us be more mindful of how our background influences our actions. If we recognize how our past shapes us, we can make better choices and maybe even change some patterns if they are not helpful. For instance, someone who had a difficult childhood might work hard to create a loving, supportive home for their own children, breaking a cycle and starting new, positive traditions.