Meaning: The quote by John Berger highlights the impact of post-modernism on our perception of time and history. It suggests that post-modernism has created a sense of disconnection from both the past and the future, leaving critical opinion isolated in the present. To fully understand the implications of this statement, it is important to explore the concept of post-modernism and its influence on society and culture.

Post-modernism is a philosophical and artistic movement that emerged in the mid-20th century. It is characterized by a rejection of traditional boundaries and a skepticism towards grand narratives and universal truths. Instead, post-modernism emphasizes the relativity of truth and the fragmented nature of reality. This movement has had a profound impact on various fields, including art, literature, architecture, and philosophy.

One of the key elements of post-modernism is its deconstruction of linear notions of time and history. In traditional narratives, time is often depicted as a linear progression from the past to the present and into the future. However, post-modernism challenges this linear view by emphasizing the coexistence of multiple temporalities and the interconnectedness of different historical moments. This deconstruction of time has significant implications for how we engage with the past, present, and future.

The quote suggests that post-modernism has severed the present from all possible futures. This can be interpreted as a commentary on the sense of uncertainty and instability that characterizes the post-modern condition. In a world where traditional structures and beliefs are constantly being questioned and deconstructed, the future becomes an elusive and unpredictable concept. This can create a feeling of disorientation and detachment from the idea of a coherent and progressive future.

Furthermore, the quote also points to the role of the daily media in perpetuating this disconnection by cutting off the past. In today's fast-paced and information-saturated society, the media often prioritizes current events and sensationalism, leaving little room for in-depth historical analysis and reflection. As a result, individuals may feel disconnected from the richness and complexity of the past, leading to a sense of historical amnesia and a lack of critical perspective.

The notion of critical opinion being orphaned in the present speaks to the challenges of navigating a world characterized by post-modern uncertainty and historical disconnection. In a post-modern context, where traditional sources of authority and truth are constantly undermined, forming coherent and informed critical opinions becomes increasingly difficult. The lack of a clear historical or cultural framework can leave individuals feeling adrift in a sea of competing narratives and interpretations.

In conclusion, John Berger's quote sheds light on the profound impact of post-modernism on our perception of time, history, and critical engagement with the world. By cutting off the present from all futures and disconnecting us from the past, post-modernism has created a sense of dislocation and disorientation. It challenges us to reconsider our relationship to time and history, and to find new ways of forming critical opinions in a world characterized by uncertainty and flux.