I'd rather have two good friends, than 500,000 admirers.
E. E. CummingsRead
may I be I is the only prayer--not may I be great or good or beautiful or wise or strong.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote emphasizes the importance of self-acceptance and authenticity over societal expectations of greatness or virtue.
E. E. Cummings expresses the idea that true fulfillment comes from simply being oneself, rather than striving for external validation or conforming to ideals of greatness, goodness, beauty, wisdom, or strength. By stating 'may I be I,' Cummings highlights the significance of personal identity and authenticity as the essence of a meaningful existence.
Themes
Self-AcceptanceAuthenticityIdentitySelf-Love
In practice
Example use cases
In a motivational speech about self-acceptance and individuality.
More from E. E. Cummings
All quotes βI'd rather learn from one bird how to sing than to teach ten thousand stars how not to dance.
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It takes courage to grow up and become who you really are.
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The Artist is no other than he who unlearns what he has learned, in order to know himself.
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Nobody else can be alive for you; nor can you be alive for anybody else.
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