I know how men in exile feed on dreams

I know how men in exile feed on dreams

The quote "I know how men in exile feed on dreams" is a powerful and poignant statement that encapsulates the essence of the human experience in exile. This quote is attributed to the ancient Greek playwright Aeschylus, who is known for his profound insights into the human condition and the struggles that individuals face when they are separated from their homeland.

Exile is a theme that runs through many of Aeschylus' works, particularly in his tragedies such as "The Oresteia" and "Prometheus Bound". In these plays, characters are often forced to leave their homes and face the harsh realities of life in a foreign land. Exile is a form of punishment, a way to isolate individuals from their communities and strip them of their identity and sense of belonging.

In the context of Aeschylus, the quote "I know how men in exile feed on dreams" speaks to the idea that when individuals are cut off from their roots and forced to live in a state of limbo, they turn to their dreams and fantasies as a source of solace and comfort. Dreams become a way for exiles to escape the harshness of their reality and find a sense of hope and purpose in their lives.

The act of "feeding on dreams" suggests that dreams are a form of sustenance for those in exile, a way to nourish their spirits and keep them going in the face of adversity. Dreams provide a sense of connection to the past and a vision for the future, allowing exiles to maintain a sense of identity and purpose even in the most difficult of circumstances.