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O look, look in the mirror O look in your distress Life…

“O look, look in the mirror O look in your distress Life remains a blessing Although you cannot bless O stand, stand at the window As the tears scald and start You shall love your crooked neighbour With your crooked heart” quote by W. H. Auden
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““O look, look in the mirror O look in your distress Life remains a blessing Although you cannot bless O stand, stand at the window As the tears scald and start You shall love your crooked neighbour With your crooked heart””

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.

The poem urges acceptance of suffering and imperfect love, finding blessing despite distress.

In simple terms: Embrace pain and love despite flaws.

Key Takeaway

Find gratitude in hardship and love your imperfect self.

Themes

acceptance love resilience

Mood

melancholic hopeful

Type

poetic philosophical

When to use this quote

  • grief
  • personal relationships
  • spiritual growth

Key Concepts

existentialism compassion

Questions to Reflect On

  • What does “crooked neighbour” symbolize for you?
  • How can you love despite personal distress?
A Different Perspective

May romanticize suffering without addressing its causes.

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