So, lost, erased, you seek a lifetime's days for it And…
““So, lost, erased, you seek a lifetime's days for it And dig deep to find the sweet instructions there Put by when God first circuited and printed thee to life: "Go hence! do this! do that! do yet another thing! This self is yours! Be it!" And what is that?! you cry at hearthing breast, Is there no rest? No, only journeying to be yourself. And even as the Birthmark vanishes, in seashell ear Now fading to a sigh, His last words send you in the world: "Not mother, father, grandfather are you. Be not another. Be the self I signed you in your blood. I swarm your flesh with you. Seek that. And, finding, be what no one else can be.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The quest for identity is a lifelong journey of self‑discovery, demanding continual action and acceptance of one’s unique essence.
In simple terms: Finding yourself requires ongoing effort and self‑acceptance.
Key Takeaway
Embrace the journey of becoming your true self.
Themes
identity
self‑discovery
journey
Mood
introspective
philosophical
Type
literary
inspirational
When to use this quote
- career choices
- creative projects
- spiritual practice
- relationships
Key Concepts
Existentialism
personal growth
Questions to Reflect On
- What does being your “self” mean to you?
- How do you handle the pressure to conform?
A Different Perspective
The search can cause anxiety and doubt.