Meaning: The quote "Only when one is able to grasp wideness can one possess it" by Ella Maillart carries a profound message about the nature of understanding and experiencing the world around us. Ella Maillart was a Swiss writer, photographer, and traveler known for her adventurous spirit and insightful observations of the human experience. In this quote, she encapsulates the idea that true possession or mastery of something comes from a deep and authentic understanding of its essence.

To grasp wideness is to comprehend the vastness and diversity of the world, whether it be in a physical, emotional, or intellectual sense. It requires an openness of mind and a willingness to embrace different perspectives, experiences, and possibilities. Without this deep comprehension, one can merely skim the surface of wideness without truly possessing it.

The concept of "grasping wideness" can be interpreted in various ways. On a literal level, it may refer to the ability to comprehend the vastness of the physical world, such as the expanse of nature, the diversity of cultures, or the complexities of the universe. In this sense, possessing wideness means having a genuine connection to the world and its richness, rather than just superficial knowledge or awareness.

Metaphorically, "grasping wideness" can also represent the capacity to understand the depth and breadth of human experience, emotions, and knowledge. It involves being open to different ideas, beliefs, and ways of living, and acknowledging the complexity and diversity of the human condition. Possessing wideness in this context means having a deep empathy and appreciation for the multiplicity of human existence.

The quote also suggests that the act of possessing wideness is not passive; rather, it is an active and intentional process. It requires a conscious effort to seek out knowledge, experience, and understanding, and to actively engage with the world around us. Only through this active pursuit can one truly possess wideness and integrate it into their being.

Ella Maillart's own life and work exemplify the principles embedded in this quote. As a traveler and adventurer, she sought to immerse herself in diverse cultures and landscapes, gaining a deep understanding of the world and its people. Her writings and photographs reflect a profound appreciation for the wideness she encountered, and her ability to convey its essence to her audience.

In conclusion, Ella Maillart's quote "Only when one is able to grasp wideness can one possess it" encapsulates a timeless truth about the nature of understanding and experiencing the world. It challenges us to actively engage with the world around us, to seek out knowledge and diversity, and to cultivate a deep and genuine connection to the wideness that surrounds us. It serves as a reminder that true possession of anything, whether it be knowledge, empathy, or experience, requires an authentic and intentional engagement with its essence.