Meaning: This quote by Ella Maillart, a Swiss adventurer, travel writer, and photographer, captures the deep-seated human desire for a sense of belonging and ownership in the world. The metaphor of the earth as our parents' house from childhood evokes a profound emotional connection to the planet and a longing for a familiar, secure, and nurturing environment. It speaks to the innate human need for a sense of place, identity, and rootedness in the world.

Ella Maillart was known for her extensive travels and exploration of diverse cultures and landscapes, and her writings often reflected her profound connection to the earth and the people she encountered. In this quote, she articulates a sentiment that resonates with many individuals who seek a deeper connection to the natural world and a feeling of belonging within it.

The metaphor of the earth as our parents' house invokes a sense of nostalgia and warmth, harkening back to a time of innocence, security, and unconditional love. It suggests a longing for a return to a state of harmony and connection with the earth, akin to the familiarity and comfort of one's childhood home. This sentiment reflects a universal yearning for a sense of ownership and belonging in the world, where one feels intimately connected to the earth and its natural wonders.

The quote also conveys a desire for a sense of stewardship and responsibility towards the earth, akin to the protective instincts one might have towards their childhood home. It implies a longing to nurture and care for the planet, recognizing it as a precious and irreplaceable inheritance that should be cherished and preserved for future generations. This echoes the growing awareness of environmental conservation and sustainability, as people seek to reclaim and protect the earth as a shared home for all living beings.

In a broader context, Maillart's quote can be interpreted as a call for a deeper connection to the natural world and a recognition of the interconnectedness of all living things. It speaks to the need for a more profound and respectful relationship with the earth, one that acknowledges the importance of preserving its beauty, diversity, and ecological balance. The metaphor of the earth as our parents' house encourages a sense of reverence and gratitude for the planet, acknowledging its role as the source of life and sustenance for humanity.

Ultimately, Maillart's quote encapsulates a deeply human longing for a sense of belonging, ownership, and interconnectedness with the earth. It reminds us of the innate desire to feel at home in the world, to cherish and protect the planet as a precious inheritance, and to cultivate a profound sense of stewardship and responsibility towards the natural world. It is a poignant reminder of the universal yearning for a deeper connection to the earth and a recognition of its enduring significance in our lives.