Poetry is a street fighter. It has sharp elbows. It can look after itself. Poetry can't be used for manipulation; it's why you never see good poetry in advertising.
David WhyteRead
In the poetic tradition, the heart's affections are indeed holy, and if organizations are asking for people's hearts and minds, they are asking in a way for their holy and hidden affections at the same time.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote emphasizes the sacredness of emotional connections and the deep affection individuals have for their organizations.
David Whyte's quote reflects on the idea that when organizations seek the commitment and passion of individuals, they are asking for something deeper than just loyalty or intellect; they are asking for an engagement of the heart. This highlights the importance of emotional investment in our work and relationships, suggesting that true connection entails recognizing and honoring the profound affections people hold.
Themes
HeartAffectionsOrganizationsCommitmentEmotionsEngagement
In practice
Example use cases
In a team meeting, this quote can inspire colleagues to connect more deeply with their work.
More from David Whyte
All quotes →Poetry is often the art of overhearing yourself say things you didn't know you knew. It is a learned skill to force yourself to articulate your life, your present world or your possibilities for the future.
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By definition, poetry works with qualities and dynamics that mainstream society is reluctant to face head-on. It's an interesting phenomenon that by necessity, poetry is just below the radar.
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The severest test of work today, is not of our strategies, but of our imaginations and identities.
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We learn, grow and become compassionate and generous as much through exile as homecoming, as much through loss as gain, as much through giving things away as in receiving what we believe to be our due.
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