The Word Wonder or dream from distant land I carried to my…
““The Word Wonder or dream from distant land I carried to my country's strand And waited till the twilit norn Had found the name within her bourn— Then I could grasp it close and strong It blooms and shines now the front along... Once I returned from happy sail, I had a prize so rich and frail, She sought for long and tidings told: "No like of this these depths enfold." And straight it vanished from my hand, The treasure never graced my land... So I renounced and sadly see: Where word breaks off no thing may be.””
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 describes a quest for a powerful word that promises great treasure but ultimately proves elusive, symbolizing the futility of chasing unattainable ideals.
In simple terms: Chasing a magical word leads to empty promises.
Key Takeaway
Seek tangible goals instead of vague promises.
Themes
quest
illusion
language
desire
Mood
melancholic
contemplative
Type
poetic
literary
When to use this quote
- creative writing
- personal reflection
- literary analysis
Key Concepts
symbolism
mythic journey
epistemology
Questions to Reflect On
- What does the “word” represent for you?
- How do you recognize when a pursuit is illusory?
A Different Perspective
The poem’s abstract language may obscure its meaning for some readers.