Everything is complicated; if that were not so, life and poetry and everything else would be a bore.
Wallace StevensRead
Complacencies of the peignoir, and late Coffee and oranges in a sunny chair. And the green freedom of a cockatoo Upon a rug mingle to dissipate The holy hush of ancient sacrifice
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote reflects a serene moment of leisure, contrasting the simplicity of daily pleasures with profound historical traditions.
Wallace Stevens' quote portrays the beauty and tranquility found in everyday rituals, such as enjoying coffee and oranges in a peaceful setting. The imagery evokes a sense of comfort and freedom, suggesting that such simple pleasures can transcend the weight of historical and cultural significance, allowing us to appreciate the present moment amidst the echoes of the past.
Themes
LeisureNatureSimplicityFreedomSerenity
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be used to introduce a discussion about the importance of savoring simple moments in life.
More from Wallace Stevens
All quotes →Most modern reproducers of life, even including the camera, really repudiate it. We gulp down evil, choke at good.
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After one has abandoned a belief in God, poetry is that essence which takes its place as life's redemption.
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Why should she give her bounty to the dead? What is divinity if it can come Only in silent shadows and in dreams?
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LIGHT FROM WITHIN my friend, cancer got you damn it: you had it beat for seven years at least. how did it come back? Why all that pain. again. and you, such a fighter you fought me over and over with tears and words and promises. you fought for me with honesty and a light so bright it hurts my heart. sweet lorna. at peace now finally no more battles, just light from within a flickering candle in the dark burns with you.
Wallace StevensRead
Unfortunately there is nothing more inane than an Easter carol. It is a religious perversion of the activity of Spring in our blood.
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