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Was it for this I uttered prayers, And sobbed and cursed…

“Was it for this I uttered prayers, And sobbed and cursed and kicked the stairs, That now, domestic as a plate, I should retire at half-past eight?” quote by Edna St. Vincent Millay
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““Was it for this I uttered prayers, And sobbed and cursed and kicked the stairs, That now, domestic as a plate, I should retire at half-past eight?””

Edna St. Vincent Millay

About This Quote

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

The speaker questions whether prayers and anguish have led to a mundane, early retirement.

In simple terms: She wonders if effort resulted in a trivial routine.

Key Takeaway

Reassess what truly matters.

Themes

existential dread disillusionment routine

Mood

melancholic reflective

Type

literary personal

When to use this quote

  • career stagnation
  • midlife crisis
  • creative burnout

Key Concepts

meaning of work spiritual questioning

Questions to Reflect On

  • What would you change to feel fulfilled?
  • Do you see value in your past efforts?
A Different Perspective

Life may feel trapped by routine despite earlier struggles.

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