A noiseless patient spider, I mark'd where on a little…
““A noiseless patient spider, I mark'd where on a little promontory it stood isolated, Mark'd how to explore the vacant vast surrounding, It launch'd forth filament, filament, filament, out of itself, Ever unreeling them, ever tirelessly speeding them. And you O my soul where you stand, Surrounded, detached, in measureless oceans of space, Ceaselessly musing, venturing, throwing, seeking the spheres to connect them, Till the bridge you will need be form'd, till the ductile anchor hold, Till the gossamer thread you fling catch somewhere, O my soul.””
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 likens the soul to a spider that constantly reaches out to connect with the vast unknown, emphasizing perseverance and the desire for unity.
In simple terms: The soul works tirelessly to connect with the infinite.
Keep reaching out, even when the task seems endless.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- personal growth
- creative work
- relationships
- spiritual practice
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- What connections are you still seeking?
- How do you cope with feeling isolated?
The effort may never fully bridge the emptiness, leading to frustration.