I would not have a god come in To shield me suddenly from…
““I would not have a god come in To shield me suddenly from sin, And set my house of life to rights; Nor angels with bright burning wings Ordering my earthly thoughts and things; Rather my own frail guttering lights Wind blown and nearly beaten out; Rather the terror of the nights And long, sick groping after doubt; Rather be lost than let my soul Slip vaguely from my own control -- Of my own spirit let me be In sole though feeble mastery.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Prefers personal struggle and doubt over divine intervention, valuing self‑mastery despite darkness.
In simple terms: Chooses personal struggle over divine rescue.
Key Takeaway
Embrace inner challenges, seek self‑mastery.
Themes
spirituality
self‑mastery
doubt
darkness
human frailty
Mood
reflective
melancholic
Type
poetic
philosophical
When to use this quote
- mental health coping
- creative writing
- personal reflection
- spiritual seeking
Key Concepts
existentialism
psychology
poetry
Questions to Reflect On
- What inner lights guide you?
- How do you face doubt without external rescue?
A Different Perspective
Divine reliance may seem easier; inner struggle can be overwhelming.