Meaning: The quote "It's a well known thing that ordinary perceptions can have a strange aspect when one is travelling" by Kenneth Koch, a renowned poet, encapsulates the idea that the act of traveling can alter our perceptions of the world around us. When we are in unfamiliar surroundings, our senses are heightened, and we become more attuned to the nuances of our environment. This heightened awareness can lead to a shift in our ordinary perceptions, making the familiar appear strange and new.

Kenneth Koch was an American poet, playwright, and professor, known for his innovative and playful approach to poetry. His work often delved into the complexities of human experience and the nature of perception, making him a fitting source for a quote that explores the impact of travel on our perceptions.

Travel has long been associated with broadening one's horizons and opening the mind to new experiences. When we venture into unknown territory, whether it be a distant country or simply a new neighborhood, our senses are bombarded with unfamiliar sights, sounds, and smells. This influx of sensory information can lead to a reevaluation of our usual way of perceiving the world.

The quote suggests that the very act of being in motion, of experiencing new places and cultures, can disrupt our accustomed ways of seeing and understanding the world. This disruption can be disorienting but also invigorating, as it prompts us to question our assumptions and embrace a more open-minded perspective.

Furthermore, the quote implies that the strangeness of our perceptions while traveling is not necessarily a negative thing. Instead, it speaks to the potential for growth and transformation that comes from encountering the unfamiliar. By acknowledging the strangeness of our perceptions, we can cultivate a sense of curiosity and wonder about the world around us, leading to a deeper appreciation for the diversity and complexity of human experience.

In a broader sense, the quote can also be interpreted as a metaphor for the ways in which change and new experiences can alter our understanding of the world. Just as travel can transform our perceptions, so too can exposure to new ideas, cultures, and ways of thinking. The quote encourages us to embrace the strangeness of these new perspectives, recognizing that they have the power to enrich and expand our understanding of the world.

In conclusion, Kenneth Koch's quote captures the transformative nature of travel and the impact it can have on our perceptions. It reminds us that the act of traveling can disrupt our ordinary ways of seeing the world, leading to a heightened awareness and a fresh perspective on our surroundings. By embracing the strangeness of these altered perceptions, we can cultivate a deeper appreciation for the diverse and ever-changing nature of human experience.