Though we do not wholly believe it yet, the interior life is a real life, and the intangible dreams of people have a tangible effect on the world.
—James Baldwin
Comforting Thought: Interior Life is Real Life
Though we do not wholly believe it yet, the interior life is a real life, and the intangible dreams of people have a tangible effect on the world.
—James Baldwin
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I wholeheartedly agree with Baldwin’s sentiment, and I do believe it—with all my heart. The interior life, the silent monologues, and the intangible dreams we carry within us shape our lives and, in turn, touch the world around us in profound ways. I see this in my own life, as the inner dreams and thoughts that I hold onto have quietly influenced how I relate to the world and others, and even how I create.
For me, that interior life is where truth and authenticity reside, unfiltered by the expectations or judgments of the external world. It’s a place of raw honesty, where my deepest aspirations take root. And while it’s easy to think that this inner realm is somehow separate or abstract, it is, in fact, what gives shape, and purpose to our actions. Baldwin understood that the interior life doesn’t exist in isolation—it spills over, coloring every interaction, every piece of art, every choice we make. I think of my own writing and photography as examples—both emerge from the core of who I am, from that inner, intangible place, and somehow connect with others in ways that are very real.
Thanks for sharing! 🙂
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I’m sorry for the delayed response dear Thomas 😘 I really enjoyed this incredibly in-depth and thoughtful response. All of these insights you touched on are so profound and so true 👍. I’m so glad to hear that you are able to integrate your dreams and hopes into your inner life and outer life too. Big hugs 🤗 💖 🫂
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I love this James Baldwin quote and wholeheartedly agree with it. Thank you so much. 🙂
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So glad you like this Janet, big hugs hope you are well
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Thank you….all’s well this end…hope the same is true for you:)
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What a wonderful quote / sentiment – I agree with the other readers too – which is lucky, because I spend a lot of time lost in my thoughts! Linda xox
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Thank you so much for reading and I am so glad you agree too. I understand being caught up in your own mind and imagination too…this can be both a blessing for the creativity and hope it offers (and a curse too if you aren’t in a good headspace). Thank you for the comment my friend, have a nice rest of your week 🙂
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Yeah – I agree: it’s a bitter-sweet arrangement… I heard the word “rumination” the other day applied to migraine people, and I it’s so true!
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