Meaning: In this thought-provoking quote, Joyce Carol Oates, a prominent American author, reflects on the nature of human behavior and the power of symbols. The quote suggests that as a species, Homo sapiens have a tendency to create and attribute significance to symbols, imbuing them with passion and authority. However, over time, humans often forget that these symbols are man-made constructs rather than inherent truths or natural phenomena.

The quote highlights the human capacity for creating and investing meaning in symbols, which can range from language and written characters to religious icons, national flags, and cultural emblems. Through these symbols, humans communicate, express values, and establish systems of belief and authority. However, Oates suggests that the act of investing passion and authority in symbols can lead to their perceived permanence and reality, blurring the line between the symbolic and the actual.

By emphasizing that humans "forget that symbols are inventions," Oates prompts us to consider the implications of our relationship with symbols. Throughout history, symbols have played a central role in shaping human societies and identities. They have been used to unite communities, inspire movements, and represent complex ideologies. However, Oates' observation underscores the potential danger of mistaking symbols for absolute truths, as this can lead to the entrenchment of dogma, bias, and conflict.

Moreover, Oates' quote invites contemplation on the role of memory and collective consciousness in relation to symbols. Human societies often pass down symbols and their associated meanings from generation to generation, embedding them in cultural practices and narratives. As a result, the origins and constructed nature of these symbols may become obscured over time, leading to their acceptance as inherent or natural aspects of reality.

The quote also touches upon the concept of cultural amnesia, where the original context and intent behind symbols are lost or distorted. As societies evolve and transform, the meanings and significance of symbols can shift, sometimes leading to misinterpretation or misuse. Oates' assertion that humans "forget" the invented nature of symbols hints at the potential consequences of this collective forgetfulness, such as the perpetuation of outdated or harmful ideologies.

In a broader sense, Oates' quote resonates with philosophical inquiries into the nature of reality, perception, and representation. It aligns with the idea that human perception and understanding are mediated through symbolic systems, and that these systems are subject to interpretation, reinterpretation, and manipulation. Additionally, it prompts us to reflect on the power dynamics inherent in the creation and manipulation of symbols, as well as the responsibility that comes with recognizing their constructed nature.

In conclusion, Joyce Carol Oates' quote encapsulates a profound observation about the human relationship with symbols. It compels us to critically examine the ways in which symbols shape our beliefs, behaviors, and societies, while also urging us to acknowledge their status as human inventions. By engaging with Oates' insight, we are encouraged to approach symbols with a heightened awareness of their origins, meanings, and potential for both positive and detrimental impact on the human experience.