Meaning: The quote "As humans we look at things and think about what we've looked at. We treasure it in a kind of private art gallery" by Thom Gunn, a renowned poet, encapsulates the essence of human perception and interpretation of the world around us. This thought-provoking quote invites us to delve into the depths of human cognition and introspection, shedding light on the profound impact of our observations and the value we attribute to them.

In this quote, Thom Gunn highlights the innate human tendency to not only observe our surroundings but also to reflect on and internalize these observations. The act of "looking at things" implies a passive engagement with our environment, but the subsequent "thinking about what we've looked at" denotes a more active and contemplative process. This juxtaposition underscores the intricate interplay between perception and cognitive processing, suggesting that our experiences are not merely fleeting moments but rather seeds for deeper contemplation.

Furthermore, the notion of treasuring our observations "in a kind of private art gallery" introduces the idea of personal significance and emotional attachment. By likening our mental repository of experiences to a private art gallery, Gunn evokes a sense of intimacy and reverence. This metaphor implies that our reflections on the world around us are not just casual musings but rather cherished pieces of personal art, carefully curated and preserved within the galleries of our minds.

From a psychological perspective, this quote speaks to the concept of perception and its role in shaping our individual realities. The act of looking at things is the initial step in the process of perception, but it is the subsequent cognitive processing that imbues these observations with meaning and significance. As humans, we possess the remarkable ability to transform raw sensory input into rich, nuanced interpretations, influenced by our unique perspectives, memories, and emotions.

Moreover, the idea of treasuring our observations in a private art gallery touches upon the subjective nature of human experience. Each person's "art gallery" is a reflection of their individuality, shaped by their personal history, cultural background, and cognitive biases. What one person chooses to treasure and contemplate may differ vastly from another's, highlighting the diversity and complexity of human perception.

In the context of art and creativity, this quote also offers a poignant reflection on the role of observation in inspiring the artistic process. Artists, whether poets, painters, or musicians, often draw inspiration from the world around them. The act of looking at things becomes a source of raw material from which they distill emotions, observations, and insights, transforming them into works of art that resonate with others.

In conclusion, Thom Gunn's quote encapsulates the profound relationship between human perception, introspection, and the subjective nature of experience. It invites us to ponder the depth of our observations and the transformative power of our thoughts. By likening our mental reflections to a private art gallery, Gunn emphasizes the personal, intimate nature of our interpretations and the enduring impact of our observations on the human psyche.