And over the pond are sailing Two swans all white as snow…
“And over the pond are sailing Two swans all white as snow; Sweet voices mysteriously wailing Pierce through me as onward they go. They sail along, and a ringing Sweet melody rises on high; And when the swans begin singing, They presently must die.”
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 juxtaposes beautiful swans with an ominous sense of mortality, suggesting that even the most graceful moments contain hidden sorrow.
In simple terms: Beauty can mask impending loss.
Cherish beauty while it lasts.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- watching nature
- appreciating art
- contemplating life
- accepting death
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- What does the swan symbolize for you?
- How do you reconcile beauty with inevitable loss?
The poem’s vague origin limits deeper historical context.