a t o n e m e n t

Nothing happens here by chance, nothing results without deep motive
and premediation. Here events are not ephemeral surface phantoms; they
have roots sunk into the deep of things and penetrate the essence.
Here decisions take place every moment, laying down precedents once
and for all. Everything that happens here happens only once and is
irrevocable. This is why such weightiness, such heavy emphasis, such
sadness inheres in what takes place.

- The Republic of Dreams