Skip to content

The stars are not wanted now: put out every one; Pack up…

“The stars are not wanted now: put out every one; Pack up the moon and dismantle the sun; Pour away the ocean and sweep up the wood. For nothing now can ever come to any good.” quote by W.H. Auden
Download Open image
““The stars are not wanted now: put out every one; Pack up the moon and dismantle the sun; Pour away the ocean and sweep up the wood. For nothing now can ever come to any good.””

W.H. Auden

About This Quote

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

Destruction of all natural and cosmic elements leads to a void where nothing beneficial can arise.

In simple terms: If everything is destroyed, nothing good can happen.

Key Takeaway

Preserve essential elements to sustain goodness.

Themes

environment destruction hope

Mood

somber urgent

Type

poetic philosophical

When to use this quote

  • urban planning
  • climate action
  • resource management

Key Concepts

ecology cosmology ethics

Questions to Reflect On

  • What essential element must we protect today?
  • Can loss ever lead to new creation?
A Different Perspective

The hyperbolic tone may overlook resilience and renewal possibilities.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by W.H. Auden

Explore all 89 W.H. Auden quotes

More Astronomy quotes

Browse all 6,190 Astronomy quotes