Poor innocents! Hell has no power overpagans. − And still…
““Poor innocents! Hell has no power overpagans. − And still this is life! Later, the delights of damnation will be all the greater. A crime, quick, so I can fall into nothingness, condemned by human laws. Shut up, will you shut up! . . . Shame and Reproach are here: Satan says the fire is contemptible, my angerridiculous. − Enough! . . . Errors are whispered on their breath, spells, sickly perfumes, insipid music. − And to think that I hold truth in my hands, that I see justice: my judgement is sound and certain, I am ready forperfection . . . Pride. − The skin of my scalp is dry. Have pity! Lord, I am afraid. I am thirsty, so thirsty! Oh! childhood, the smell of grass, the sound of rain, water from the lake lapping on pebbles, the moonlight when theclock strikes twelve . . . that’s when the devil is in thetower. Mary! Holy Virgin! . . . − The horror of my stupidity. Aren’t there any honest souls who wish me well down there? . . .””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The poet wrestles with existential dread, moral ambiguity, and yearning for redemption amid chaotic thoughts.
In simple terms: A tormented soul seeks meaning, confronting sin, fear, and fleeting memories.
Seek clarity and peace amid inner turmoil.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- creative writing
- therapy
- philosophical reflection
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- What does the poet fear most?
- How can one find grounding in such turmoil?
The dense, fragmented style may obscure meaning.