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How sad they are, the promises we never return to. They…

“How sad they are, the promises we never return to. They stay in our mouths, roughen the tongue, lead lives of their own.” quote by Jane Hirshfield
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“How sad they are, the promises we never return to. They stay in our mouths, roughen the tongue, lead lives of their own.”

Jane Hirshfield

About This Quote

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

Describes unfulfilled promises as lingering, sour words that take on a life of their own.

In simple terms: Unkept promises linger and affect us.

Key Takeaway

Be mindful of commitments.

Themes

commitment language consequence reflection

Mood

reflective melancholic

Type

poetic philosophical

When to use this quote

  • relationships
  • public speaking
  • writing
  • personal goals

Key Concepts

psychology of promises lingering effects

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do unkept promises shape trust?
  • What steps can repair broken promises?
A Different Perspective

Promises can be broken unintentionally.

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