Skip to content

all theories like cliches shot to hell, all these small…

“all theories like cliches shot to hell, all these small faces looking up beautiful and believing; I wish to weep but sorrow is stupid. I wish to believe but believe is a graveyard. we have narrowed it down to the butcherknife and the mockingbird wish us luck.” quote by Charles Bukowski
Download Open image
““all theories like cliches shot to hell, all these small faces looking up beautiful and believing; I wish to weep but sorrow is stupid. I wish to believe but believe is a graveyard. we have narrowed it down to the butcherknife and the mockingbird wish us luck.””

Charles Bukowski

About This Quote

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

Clichés and idealism clash with harsh reality, leading to emotional conflict and existential doubt.

In simple terms: Idealism meets harsh reality, causing doubt.

Key Takeaway

Question beliefs and accept life's complexities.

Themes

existential cynicism artistry

Mood

melancholic introspective

Type

literary philosophical

When to use this quote

  • creative writing
  • personal reflection
  • art critique
  • mental health

Key Concepts

philosophy literature psychology

Questions to Reflect On

  • Do you cling to comforting clichés?
  • What truths lie beyond idealism?
A Different Perspective

Romanticizing can blind you to truth.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Charles Bukowski

Explore all 1,492 Charles Bukowski quotes

More Charles-bukowski quotes

Browse all 19 Charles-bukowski quotes