Meaning: The quote "Our deeds still travel with us from afar, and what we have been makes us what we are" is attributed to George Eliot, the pen name of the English novelist, poet, journalist, and translator Mary Ann Evans. This quote encapsulates the idea that our past actions and experiences continue to shape and influence our present selves, regardless of the distance or time that separates us from those deeds.

George Eliot's writing often delves into the complexities of human nature and the lasting impact of our choices and experiences. In this particular quote, she emphasizes the enduring nature of our deeds, suggesting that they accompany us throughout our lives, no matter how far we may travel or how much time may pass. The concept of continuity and the interconnectedness of our past and present selves is a recurring theme in Eliot's works.

The first part of the quote, "Our deeds still travel with us from afar," suggests that our actions have a lasting impact that transcends physical distance. Even if we move to new places or embark on new journeys, the consequences of our past deeds continue to reverberate in our lives. This notion speaks to the idea of personal responsibility and the understanding that we carry the weight of our actions with us wherever we go.

The second part of the quote, "and what we have been makes us what we are," highlights the formative influence of our past experiences on our present identity. It suggests that our personal history, including the choices we have made and the events we have lived through, plays a fundamental role in shaping our character and defining who we are in the present moment. This idea aligns with the broader theme of self-discovery and self-awareness that permeates much of George Eliot's writing.

In a more philosophical sense, the quote can be interpreted as a reflection on the interconnectedness of time and the notion that our past, present, and future selves are inextricably linked. It invites contemplation on the ways in which our actions echo through time, influencing the course of our lives and contributing to the ongoing process of self-definition.

Overall, George Eliot's quote "Our deeds still travel with us from afar, and what we have been makes us what we are" encapsulates a timeless truth about the enduring impact of our actions and experiences. It serves as a poignant reminder of the interconnectedness of our past and present selves, as well as a call to introspection and mindful consideration of the choices we make and the paths we choose to follow.

In conclusion, this quote by George Eliot offers a profound insight into the lasting influence of our deeds and experiences on our lives. It encourages us to acknowledge the significance of our past actions and the ways in which they continue to shape our present identity. Whether viewed through a personal, moral, or philosophical lens, the quote resonates with the universal truth that we are, in many ways, a product of our own history.