Meaning: The quote by Denis Norden, a well-known writer and broadcaster, reflects on the subjective nature of memory and perception. Norden's comparison of memory to children talking about holidays underscores the idea that individuals can have vastly different recollections of the same event or experience. This notion speaks to the fallibility of memory and the way in which our personal perceptions shape our understanding of the world around us.

Memory is a complex and multifaceted aspect of human cognition. It is not a simple recording of past events, but rather a dynamic process influenced by various factors such as emotions, beliefs, and biases. As a result, our memories are often subjective and can be shaped and reshaped over time. Norden's comparison to children talking about holidays highlights the way in which individual perspectives and interpretations can diverge, leading to differing memories of the same event.

Furthermore, Norden's suggestion that "everything is not how it is, but how it's remembered" touches on the idea that our memories are not necessarily accurate representations of reality. Instead, they are filtered through the lens of our perceptions and emotions, which can distort or embellish the original experience. This concept aligns with research in the field of psychology, which has demonstrated that memory is susceptible to various forms of distortion, including false memories and selective recall.

The quote also raises questions about the nature of truth and reality. If everything is not how it is, but how it's remembered, then the reliability of our memories becomes a crucial factor in determining our understanding of the world. This notion has significant implications for fields such as history and jurisprudence, where the accuracy of memory and testimony is often central to establishing the truth.

In a broader sense, Norden's quote invites us to consider the malleability of our perceptions and the way in which our memories shape our personal narratives. It serves as a reminder that our understanding of the past is not fixed, but rather a fluid and evolving construct influenced by our individual perspectives and interpretations.

In conclusion, Denis Norden's quote offers a thought-provoking insight into the subjective nature of memory and perception. By likening memory to children talking about holidays, Norden highlights the diversity of individual recollections and the inherent subjectivity of memory. His suggestion that "everything is not how it is, but how it's remembered" prompts us to consider the complex interplay between memory, truth, and personal experience. Overall, the quote serves as a poignant reminder of the intricate and often elusive nature of human memory.