With heart at rest I climbed the citadel's Steep height…
““With heart at rest I climbed the citadel's Steep height, and saw the city as from a tower, Hospital, brothel, prison, and such hells, Where evil comes up softly like a flower. Thou knowest, O Satan, patron of my pain, Not for vain tears I went up at that hour; But like an old sad faithful lecher, fain To drink delight of that enormous trull Whose hellish beauty makes me young again. Whether thou sleep, with heavy vapors full, Sodden with day, or, new appareled, stand In gold-laced veils of evening beautiful, I love thee, infamous city! Harlots and Hunted have pleasures of their own to give, The vulgar herd can never understand.””
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 admires a corrupt city, finding dark beauty and vitality in its sins, while lamenting society’s inability to grasp its allure.
In simple terms: Finding beauty in decay and chaos.
Key Takeaway
Embrace the city's dark allure.
Themes
beauty
decay
urban life
duality
desire
Mood
melancholic
intense
defiant
Type
poetic
philosophical
romantic
When to use this quote
- night walks
- artistic inspiration
- social critique
- personal reflection
Key Concepts
existentialism
romanticism
nihilism
Questions to Reflect On
- What draws you to the city's darkness?
- Can you find beauty in moral decay?
A Different Perspective
The city’s corruption may mask deeper suffering.