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World was in the face of the beloved--, but suddenly it…

“World was in the face of the beloved--, but suddenly it poured out and was gone: world is outside, world can not be grasped. Why didn't I, from the full, beloved face as I raised it to my lips, why didn't I drink world, so near that I couldn't almost taste it? Ah, I drank. Insatiably I drank. But…” quote by Rainer Maria Rilke
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““World was in the face of the beloved--, but suddenly it poured out and was gone: world is outside, world can not be grasped. Why didn't I, from the full, beloved face as I raised it to my lips, why didn't I drink world, so near that I couldn't almost taste it? Ah, I drank. Insatiably I drank. But I was filled up also, with too much world, and, drinking, I myself ran over.””

Rainer Maria Rilke

About This Quote

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

Attempting to fully consume the world leads to excess and loss of self; moderation is needed.

In simple terms: Trying to drink the world can overwhelm you.

Key Takeaway

Seek balance between experience and self‑preservation.

Themes

desire excess self‑loss

Mood

intense reflective

Type

philosophical poetic

When to use this quote

  • pursuing artistic inspiration
  • exploring new cultures
  • intense learning experiences

Key Concepts

moderation spiritual yearning human limitation

Questions to Reflect On

  • What limits should you set when seeking total immersion?
  • How does restraint preserve your essence?
A Different Perspective

Overindulgence can erode personal identity.

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