Skip to content

If I had another life I would want to spend it all on some…

“If I had another life I would want to spend it all on some unstinting happiness. I would be a fox, or a tree full of waving branches. I wouldn't mind being a rose in a field full of roses. Fear has not yet occurred to them, nor ambition. Reason they have not yet thought of. Neither do they ask how…” quote by Mary Oliver
Download Open image
““If I had another life I would want to spend it all on some unstinting happiness. I would be a fox, or a tree full of waving branches. I wouldn't mind being a rose in a field full of roses. Fear has not yet occurred to them, nor ambition. Reason they have not yet thought of. Neither do they ask how long they must be roses, and then what. Or any other foolish question.””

Mary Oliver

About This Quote

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

She envies the simple, unambitious existence of natural beings, free from fear and existential questioning.

In simple terms: Wishes for a carefree, natural life without fear.

Key Takeaway

Embrace simplicity and present‑moment awareness.

Themes

nature freedom contentment

Mood

reflective tranquil

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • gardening
  • forest walks
  • mindful observation

Key Concepts

existentialism joy simplicity

Questions to Reflect On

  • What does “unambitious” mean to you?
  • How can you find peace without escapism?
A Different Perspective

Idealizing nature may overlook human complexities and responsibilities.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Mary Oliver

Explore all 470 Mary Oliver quotes

More Another life quotes

Browse all 433 Another life quotes