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I love this piece... Brahma If the red slayer think he…

“I love this piece... Brahma If the red slayer think he slays, Or if the slain think he is slain, They know not well the subtle ways I keep, and pass, and turn again. Far or forgot to me is near, Shadow and sunlight are the same, The vanished gods to me appear, And one to me are shame and fame…” quote by Ralph Waldo Emerson
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““I love this piece... Brahma If the red slayer think he slays, Or if the slain think he is slain, They know not well the subtle ways I keep, and pass, and turn again. Far or forgot to me is near, Shadow and sunlight are the same, The vanished gods to me appear, And one to me are shame and fame. They reckon ill who leave me out; When me they fly, I am the wings; I am the doubter and the doubt, And I the hymn the Brahmin sings. The strong gods pine for my abode, And pine in vain the sacred Seven; But thou, meek lover of the good! Find me, and turn thy back on heaven.””

Ralph Waldo Emerson

About This Quote

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

The poem explores the paradoxical nature of reality, where opposites coexist and truth is hidden in subtle, ever‑changing forms.

In simple terms: Reality is a blend of opposites and hidden truths.

Key Takeaway

Seek deeper understanding beyond surface appearances.

Themes

paradox duality spirituality perception truth

Mood

contemplative enigmatic inspirational

Type

poetic philosophical mystical

When to use this quote

  • personal reflection
  • creative writing
  • spiritual practice
  • conflict resolution
  • critical analysis

Key Concepts

philosophy metaphysics mythology duality transcendence

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you reconcile opposing ideas in your life?
  • What hidden truths have you discovered?
A Different Perspective

The abstract language may obscure practical application for some readers.

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