The White Goddess All saints revile her, and all sober men…
““The White Goddess All saints revile her, and all sober men Ruled by the God Apollo's golden mean - In scorn of which we sailed to find her In distant regions likeliest to hold her Whom we desired above all things to know, Sister of the mirage and echo. It was a virtue not to stay, To go our headstrong and heroic way Seeking her out at the volcano's head, Among pack ice, or where the track had faded Beyond the cavern of the seven sleepers: Whose broad high brow was white as any leper's, Whose eyes were blue, with rowan-berry lips, With hair curled honey-coloured to white hips. The sap of Spring in the young wood a-stir Will celebrate with green the Mother, And every song-bird shout awhile for her; But we are gifted, even in November Rawest of seasons, with so huge a sense Of her nakedly worn magnificence We forget cruelty and past betrayal, Heedless of where the next bright bolt may fall.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The poet describes an elusive, divine feminine ideal that inspires questing beyond ordinary limits, embodying both beauty and danger.
In simple terms: A quest for a powerful, mysterious feminine force.
Key Takeaway
Pursue the transcendent despite hardship.
Themes
myth
quest
beauty
danger
transcendence
Mood
awe
determination
melancholy
Type
mythic
poetic
inspirational
When to use this quote
- exploration of artistic inspiration
- personal transformation
- spiritual pilgrimage
Key Concepts
Archetype
the divine feminine
heroic journey
Questions to Reflect On
- What does the White Goddess symbolize for you?
- How might the chase affect your values?
A Different Perspective
The pursuit may lead to obsession or loss of self.