Meaning: The quote by Robert Morgan, an American poet and author, delves into the concept of manipulating time through the use of language. Morgan suggests that the power of language lies in its ability to transcend human time and tap into different temporal scales, such as atomic time and geologic time. By employing an unexpected word choice, a speaker or writer can effectively distort the perception of time, creating a profound impact on the listener or reader.

In essence, the quote underscores the transformative potential of language in shaping our understanding and experience of time. It highlights the idea that language is not merely a tool for communication, but a medium through which we can alter and transcend our temporal boundaries.

When considering the notion of distorting time through language, it is crucial to recognize the multifaceted nature of time itself. In the realm of physics, time is a fundamental dimension that governs the sequence of events and the passage of moments. However, beyond its scientific definition, time holds diverse cultural, psychological, and existential meanings for individuals and societies.

In the context of human time, language often serves as a vehicle for expressing and organizing our experiences within the temporal framework of everyday life. It enables us to narrate our personal histories, communicate plans and aspirations, and engage in the rhythm of daily activities. However, language also has the capacity to transcend these immediate temporal confines and transport us into broader temporal domains.

The reference to atomic time in Morgan's quote alludes to the infinitesimally small scale of time associated with the behavior of atoms and subatomic particles. In the realm of atomic physics, time is intricately linked to the quantum nature of matter and energy, giving rise to phenomena such as quantum superposition and entanglement. By invoking atomic time, the quote suggests that language has the power to evoke the profound and enigmatic temporal characteristics of the quantum world, challenging our conventional understanding of time.

Furthermore, the mention of geologic time in the quote directs attention to the immense temporal scales associated with the formation and transformation of the Earth's geological features. Geologic time spans millions to billions of years, encompassing the evolution of continents, the emergence and extinction of species, and the shaping of landscapes. By invoking geologic time, the quote implies that language can evoke the vastness and enduring nature of geological processes, expanding our temporal perspective beyond the immediacy of human existence.

The notion of an unexpected word choice as a means to accomplish temporal distortion highlights the subtle yet potent influence of language on our temporal perception. Language is replete with nuances, connotations, and cultural resonances, all of which contribute to the shaping of temporal meanings and experiences. A single word, strategically placed within a narrative or discourse, can disrupt the conventional flow of time, eliciting profound shifts in perception and understanding. It can evoke associations with different temporal scales, triggering contemplation of the infinitesimal or the monumental, the fleeting or the enduring.

In conclusion, Robert Morgan's quote encapsulates the profound influence of language in distorting and transcending our temporal boundaries. It invites contemplation of the ways in which language can evoke atomic time, geologic time, and other temporal dimensions, thereby reshaping our perceptions and experiences of time. Through the artful and strategic use of language, individuals have the capacity to traverse temporal scales, challenging and expanding our understanding of time itself.