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What once was cuddled must learn to kiss, The cold worm's…

“What once was cuddled must learn to kiss, The cold worm's mouth. That's all the mystery.” quote by Archibald MacLeish
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“What once was cuddled must learn to kiss, The cold worm's mouth. That's all the mystery.”

Archibald MacLeish

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

The quote juxtaposes intimacy and loss, suggesting that closeness can turn into a cold, mysterious encounter requiring acceptance of change.

In simple terms: Intimacy can become distant and mysterious.

Key Takeaway

Embrace change and seek understanding.

Themes

change intimacy acceptance growth

Mood

melancholic contemplative

Type

poetic metaphorical

When to use this quote

  • relationships
  • personal loss
  • self‑reflection

Key Concepts

philosophy psychology metaphor

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you handle relationships that become distant?
  • What does “cold worm’s mouth” symbolize for you?
A Different Perspective

The metaphor may be obscure without context.

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