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A crippled child Said, "How shall I dance?" Let your heart…

“A crippled child Said, "How shall I dance?" Let your heart dance We said. Then the invalid said: "How shall I sing?" Let your heart sing We said Then spoke the poor dead thistle, "But I, how shall I dance?" Let your heart fly to the wind We said. Then God spoke from above "How shall I descend from…” quote by Gabriela Mistral
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“A crippled child Said, "How shall I dance?" Let your heart dance We said. Then the invalid said: "How shall I sing?" Let your heart sing We said Then spoke the poor dead thistle, "But I, how shall I dance?" Let your heart fly to the wind We said. Then God spoke from above "How shall I descend from the blue?" Come dance for us here in the light We said. All the valley is dancing Together under the sun, And the heart of him who joins us not Is turned to dust, to dust.”

Gabriela Mistral

About This Quote

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

The poem explores yearning for expression and divine connection, urging the heart to dance, sing, and ascend despite limitations

In simple terms: It urges the heart to express itself freely despite hardships

Key Takeaway

Allow your heart to express freely despite obstacles

Themes

spirituality creativity human struggle divine connection

Mood

contemplative hopeful

Type

poetic inspirational

When to use this quote

  • personal reflection
  • creative writing
  • spiritual practice
  • overcoming adversity

Key Concepts

existential yearning artistic expression spiritual ascent

Questions to Reflect On

  • What does “dance” symbolize for you?
  • How do you find your heart’s voice?
A Different Perspective

Interpretations may vary, and the abstract style can be elusive

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