The wolf howled under the leaves As he spat out the bright…
““The wolf howled under the leaves As he spat out the bright feathers Of his feast of fowl: Like him, I devour myself. Lettuce and fruit Wait only to be picked; But the spider in the hedge Eats only violets. Let me sleep! Let me boil On the altars of Solomon. The broth runs over the rust, And flows into the Kidron. ——— At last– O happiness, O reason– I removed from the sky the blue that is black, and I lived, a glitter of gold in the light of nature. From joy I took an expression as clownish and distracted as possible: It is found again! What? Eternity. It is the sea merged With the sun. My eternal soul, Observe your vow In spite of the night And the day on fire. So you free yourself From human approbation, From common aspirations! You fly with . . . − Never any hope. Nul orietur. Science and patience, The torment is certain. No more tomorrow, Embers of satin, Your ardour Is your duty. It is found again! − What? − Eternity. It is the sea merged With the sun.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
A surreal meditation on self‑destruction, yearning, and the fleeting nature of joy, juxtaposing natural imagery with existential longing.
In simple terms: A wild, confusing search for meaning and peace.
Key Takeaway
Embrace paradox, seek inner truth.
Themes
existentialism
surrealism
self‑destruction
joy
transcendence
Mood
melancholic
hopeful
introspective
Type
poetic
philosophical
When to use this quote
- creative writing
- personal crisis
- spiritual quest
- artistic inspiration
Key Concepts
nihilism
alchemy
solitude
Questions to Reflect On
- What does “eternity” mean to you?
- How can paradox fuel growth?
A Different Perspective
The imagery may obscure practical guidance for everyday life.