If a poet interprets a poem of his own he limits its suggestibility.
William Butler YeatsRead
Though leaves are many, the root is one; Through all the lying days of my youth I swayed my leaves and flowers in the sun Now I may wither into the truth.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote reflects the journey of personal growth and the search for truth amidst external influences.
William Butler Yeats explores the idea that while a person may exhibit many different facets and experiences in their life (the leaves), there remains a singular essence or truth at the core (the root). The passage suggests that youthful exuberance and exploration often distract one from their deeper reality, but ultimately, with maturity, there is a return to a more authentic self.
Themes
TruthGrowthYouthAuthenticityPhilosophy
In practice
Example use cases
This quote is perfect for a personal development workshop focused on self-discovery.
More from William Butler Yeats
All quotes →It was my first meeting with a philosophy that confirmed my vague speculations and seemed at once logical and boundless.
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But I, being poor, have only my dreams; I have spread my dreams under your feet; Tread softly because you tread on my dreams.
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How far away the stars seem, and how far is our first kiss, and ah, how old my heart.
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For he would be thinking of love Till the stars had run away And the shadows eaten the moon.
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Love is created and preserved by intellectual analysis, for we love only that which is unique, and it belongs to contemplation, not to action, for we would not change that which we love.
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