Courage was mine, and I had mystery, Wisdom was mine, and…
“Courage was mine, and I had mystery, Wisdom was mine, and I had mastery: To miss the march of this retreating world Into vain citadels that are not walled.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The speaker laments losing courage and wisdom, fearing futile pursuits in a decaying world.
In simple terms: He feels lost and warns against empty ambitions.
Key Takeaway
Seek purpose, avoid hollow goals.
Themes
courage
wisdom
disillusionment
impermanence
Mood
melancholic
reflective
Type
poetic
philosophical
When to use this quote
- personal reflection
- career choices
- social activism
- spiritual seeking
Key Concepts
existentialism
war poetry
philosophy
Questions to Reflect On
- What values guide your actions?
- How do you recognize empty pursuits?
A Different Perspective
The poet’s personal crisis may not apply universally.