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But now let us consider the holes in our own bodies and…

“But now let us consider the holes in our own bodies and into what these congenital wounds open. Under the skin of man is a wondrous jungle where veins like lush tropical growths hang along over-ripe organs and weed-like entrails writhe in squirming tangles of red and yellow. In this jungle…” quote by Nathanael West
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““But now let us consider the holes in our own bodies and into what these congenital wounds open. Under the skin of man is a wondrous jungle where veins like lush tropical growths hang along over-ripe organs and weed-like entrails writhe in squirming tangles of red and yellow. In this jungle, flitting from rock-gray lungs to golden intestines, from liver to lights and back to liver again, lives a bird called the soul.””

Nathanael West

About This Quote

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

The human body is likened to a wild jungle, with veins and organs as tangled flora, and the soul is a bird navigating this chaotic interior.

In simple terms: The body is a tangled jungle; the soul is a bird within it.

Key Takeaway

Recognize the complexity of our inner selves.

Themes

biology metaphor existence

Mood

reflective poetic

Type

literary philosophical

When to use this quote

  • medical study
  • self‑reflection
  • creative writing

Key Concepts

human anatomy spirituality literary imagery

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does this imagery affect our view of health?
  • Can the soul be understood scientifically?
A Different Perspective

The metaphor may obscure scientific accuracy.

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