Only in dreams, in poetry, in play do we sometimes arrive at what we were before we were this thing that, who knows, we are.

The quote "Only in dreams, in poetry, in play do we sometimes arrive at what we were before we were this thing that, who knows, we are." by Julio Cortazar reflects on the idea that our true selves or deeper identities are often obscured by the roles and realities we encounter in everyday life. Cortazar, an Argentine writer known for his experimental and surreal works, suggests that in moments of dreaming, poetry, and play, we can access a more authentic version of ourselves, a state of being that exists before societal roles and external labels shape who we become.

Cortazar’s reference to dreams, poetry, and play points to forms of expression that allow individuals to break free from the constraints of their everyday lives. These realms, where imagination and creativity reign, offer a chance to return to a more primitive, unfiltered self. In these moments, we may glimpse who we were before we were conditioned by the expectations of society, family, or culture. Cortazar emphasizes that this reconnection to our true selves is fleeting and often only accessible in the more unconscious or artistic experiences.

The phrase "before we were this thing that, who knows, we are" suggests that our identity is not fixed but constantly evolving, shaped by external forces and personal experiences. Cortazar hints at the mystery of who we truly are, suggesting that perhaps the truest version of ourselves is something difficult to pin down or understand. The ambiguity of "who knows" reflects the uncertainty of the human condition, where the journey of self-discovery is never fully complete.

Ultimately, Cortazar’s quote challenges us to think about the fluidity of identity and the ways in which our most authentic selves can be revealed through creative expression and introspection. It encourages a deeper exploration of who we are, not just through daily routines, but in the spaces where we allow ourselves to be free—through dreams, art, and moments of play that transcend the limitations of the everyday world.