Be still, my soul, be still; the arms you bear are…
““Be still, my soul, be still; the arms you bear are brittle, Earth and high heaven are fixt of old and founded strong. Think rather,--call to thought, if now you grieve a little, The days when we had rest, O soul, for they were long. Men loved unkindness then, but lightless in the quarry I slept and saw not; tears fell down, I did not mourn; Sweat ran and blood sprang out and I was never sorry: Then it was well with me, in days ere I was born. Now, and I muse for why and never find the reason, I pace the earth, and drink the air, and feel the sun. Be still, be still, my soul; it is but for a season: Let us endure an hour and see injustice done. Ay, look: high heaven and earth ail from the prime foundation; All thoughts to rive the heart are here, and all are vain: Horror and scorn and hate and fear and indignation-- Oh why did I awake? when shall I sleep again?””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The speaker wrestles with existential longing, seeking peace amid suffering and questioning purpose.
In simple terms: Search for inner peace.
Key Takeaway
Accept impermanence.
Themes
existence
pain
spirituality
Mood
melancholic
reflective
Type
literary
philosophical
When to use this quote
- loneliness
- grief
- meditation
- night walks
Key Concepts
nihilism
contemplation
Questions to Reflect On
- What comforts you in hardship?
- How do you find meaning in suffering?
A Different Perspective
The poem’s archaic style may obscure modern relevance.