So give me back that time again, When I was still…
![“So give me back that time again, When I was still ‘becoming’, [185] When words gushed like a fountain In new, and endless flowing, Then for me mists veiled the world, In every bud the wonder glowed, A thousand flowers I unfurled, [190] That every valley, richly, showed. I had nothing, yet enough…” quote by Johann Wolfgang von Goethe](https://sms4smile.com/q/img-quotes/46c/johann-wolfgang-von-goethe-36_passion_so-give-me-back-that-time-again-when-i-w_2953106.jpg)
““So give me back that time again, When I was still ‘becoming’, [185] When words gushed like a fountain In new, and endless flowing, Then for me mists veiled the world, In every bud the wonder glowed, A thousand flowers I unfurled, [190] That every valley, richly, showed. I had nothing, yet enough: Joy in illusion, thirst for truth. Give every passion, free to move, The deepest bliss, filled with pain, [195] The force of hate, the power of love, Oh, give me back my youth again!””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Nostalgic yearning for youthful vigor, creativity, and unfiltered passion despite life's complexities.
In simple terms: Missing youthful passion and wonder.
Key Takeaway
Seek to revive youthful curiosity.
Themes
youth
creativity
nostalgia
passion
transcendence
Mood
reflective
melancholic
Type
poetic
philosophical
When to use this quote
- creative projects
- learning new skills
- reflective writing
- mindfulness practice
Key Concepts
existentialism
artistic expression
Questions to Reflect On
- What aspects of youth can you cultivate now?
- How does nostalgia affect present goals?
A Different Perspective
Idealizing youth may ignore mature strengths.