...the best conclusion I was able to reach was that what we instinctively call imagination is in reality nothing less than the symbolic knowledge of … - E. T. A. Hoffmann

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...the best conclusion I was able to reach was that what we instinctively call imagination is in reality nothing less than the symbolic knowledge of that secret thread which weaves itself through our life knotted fast in all its windings, and without which we would surely be lost. But with this knowledge I realised too that this secret power also rules over us, for these same threads can be forcibly torn apart and leave us at the mercy of the dark fiend who is always ready to claim us as his own.

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About E. T. A. Hoffmann

Ernst Theodor Wilhelm Hoffmann (24 January 1776 – 25 June 1822), better known by his pen name E. T. A. Hoffmann, was a German Romantic author of fantasy and horror, a jurist, composer, music critic, draftsman and caricaturist. He is the subject and hero of Jacques Offenbach's opera The Tales of Hoffmann, a fictionalized account.

Biography information from Wikiquote

Also Known As

Native Name: Ernst Theodor Amadeus Hoffmann
Alternative Names: Ernst Theodor Wilhelm. Hoffman Ernst Theodor Amedeus Hoffmann Ernst Theodor Wilhelm Hoffman E.T.A. Hoffmann Ernst Theodor Hoffmann Amadeus Hoffman Amadeus Hoffmann E. T. Hoffmann ernst theodor amadeus hoffmann e. th. a. hoffmann Ernst Theodore Wilhelm Hoffmann Ernst T. A. Hoffmann Ernst Theodor Wilhelm Hoffmann

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Additional quotes by E. T. A. Hoffmann

With the confidence and peace of mind native to true genius, I lay my life story before the world, so that the reader may learn how to educate himself to be a great tomcat, may recognize the full extent of my excellence, may love, value, honour and admire me- and worship me a little.

Should anyone be audacious enough to think of casting doubt on the sterling worth of this remarkable book, let him reflect that he is dealing with a tomcat possessed of intellect, understanding, and sharp claws.

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