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There are knives that glitter like altars In a dark church…

“There are knives that glitter like altars In a dark church Where they bring the cripple and the imbecile To be healed. There's a woden block where bones are broken, Scraped clean--a river dried to its bed” quote by Charles Simic
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“There are knives that glitter like altars In a dark church Where they bring the cripple and the imbecile To be healed. There's a woden block where bones are broken, Scraped clean--a river dried to its bed”

Charles Simic

About This Quote

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

A vivid, unsettling image of false salvation, where glittering knives in a dark church symbolize deceptive cures that harm the vulnerable.

In simple terms: Deceptive cures harm the weak.

Key Takeaway

Beware false promises of healing.

Themes

deception healing vulnerability religion

Mood

dark cautionary

Type

poetic critical

When to use this quote

  • medical practice
  • spiritual guidance
  • political rhetoric
  • personal relationships

Key Concepts

symbolism illusion power dynamics

Questions to Reflect On

  • What appears benevolent might hide harm?
  • How do symbols shape our trust?
A Different Perspective

Healing may be a façade that masks exploitation.

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