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A wave of Time hangs motionless on this particular shore…

“A wave of Time hangs motionless on this particular shore. I notice a tree, arsenical grey in the light, or the slow Wheel of the stars, the Great Bear glittering colder than snow, And remember there was something else I was hoping for.” quote by Theodore Roethke
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““A wave of Time hangs motionless on this particular shore. I notice a tree, arsenical grey in the light, or the slow Wheel of the stars, the Great Bear glittering colder than snow, And remember there was something else I was hoping for.””

Theodore Roethke

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 juxtaposes timeless natural symbols with personal longing, highlighting yearning amid cosmic stillness.

In simple terms: Nature’s symbols reflect personal desire.

Key Takeaway

Notice how external scenes echo inner hopes.

Themes

longing nature existential

Mood

melancholic inspirational

Type

poetic reflective

When to use this quote

  • night walks
  • stargazing
  • creative writing
  • meditation
  • art critique

Key Concepts

symbolism contemplation

Questions to Reflect On

  • What does the “Great Bear” symbolize for you?
  • How do natural cycles influence your aspirations?
A Different Perspective

Personal desire may be misread as external.

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