"In the Universe, there are things that are known, and things that are unknown, and in between, there are doors"
William Blake
It's a simple statement with oh so much in it.
There are many things unknown, to me and to others; and also things that are known. I like that there is mystery out there, and there is always so much more to learn, discover, and know.
I like too that we find ways to make sense of things and to know them.
Ahhhhh but doors…so often the portal thru which we glimpse or enter places previously unknown to us. Its funny to think about how often we approach doors with confidence - because we know who or what lies behind them; and funny to observe those moments of uncertainty when we approach a door; not sure show to deal with it, wondering how loud to knock, or whether to simply turn the handle - or press the buzzer?
The uncertainty and unknowns that lie behind those doors change our behaviour. But it remains the door which allows us entry, which guides us through the point of access. Some doors seem friendlier than others; some tell stories of humble abodes; others of fortresses. They can say so much without saying a thing!
Whilst this one appears fortress-like, it is the door into the Talas paper and bookbinding supplies store in Brooklyn NY. I love its stainless steel patchwork and patina. It was heavy and weighty, but didn't seem all that unfriendly, and may I say it opened into an Aladdin's cave. Maybe that's why they like to make it look protected...
A door is such a simple concept and often just a plank of word, some hinges and a handle. It does however symbolise the transition between inside and outside, private and public; known and unknown. No wonder so many use doors in their artwork and photograph them wherever they go.
William Blake
It's a simple statement with oh so much in it.
There are many things unknown, to me and to others; and also things that are known. I like that there is mystery out there, and there is always so much more to learn, discover, and know.
I like too that we find ways to make sense of things and to know them.
Ahhhhh but doors…so often the portal thru which we glimpse or enter places previously unknown to us. Its funny to think about how often we approach doors with confidence - because we know who or what lies behind them; and funny to observe those moments of uncertainty when we approach a door; not sure show to deal with it, wondering how loud to knock, or whether to simply turn the handle - or press the buzzer?
The uncertainty and unknowns that lie behind those doors change our behaviour. But it remains the door which allows us entry, which guides us through the point of access. Some doors seem friendlier than others; some tell stories of humble abodes; others of fortresses. They can say so much without saying a thing!
Whilst this one appears fortress-like, it is the door into the Talas paper and bookbinding supplies store in Brooklyn NY. I love its stainless steel patchwork and patina. It was heavy and weighty, but didn't seem all that unfriendly, and may I say it opened into an Aladdin's cave. Maybe that's why they like to make it look protected...
A door is such a simple concept and often just a plank of word, some hinges and a handle. It does however symbolise the transition between inside and outside, private and public; known and unknown. No wonder so many use doors in their artwork and photograph them wherever they go.
Love this quote - and how true about doors - the link between us and endless possibilities. Don't you just love the Talas door. Would love it as my front door! x
ReplyDeleteI could see you with that door Susan! I have really been pondering doors of late - indoors, outdoors, secret, open, so many many things to explore...
Deletei'm wondering you two, just what treasure talas had in store for YOU?
ReplyDeleteoh me oh my Velma - lots of treasures - yum!
DeleteWonderful words - a door is an opening to the imagination and a closing on things we want to put behind us
ReplyDeleteVery symbolic to close a door isn't it Rosie? And of course opening one too...
DeleteI often think that Blake was born out of his time. I've never come across this quote before Fiona, but I think it is quite a modern thought. It is quite amazing to think this was said in the 18th century.Your photo and observations make me think how interesting it would be to explore the theme of doorways and portals.
ReplyDeleteIts a wonderful quote isn't it Lesley? It feel so beautiful, so wise, so gentle. Maybe it was the mysticisms of the 18th C? But yes, it's got me pondering doors and portals too...
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