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The gulfing whale was like a dot in the spell. Yet look…

“The gulfing whale was like a dot in the spell. Yet look upon it, and 'twould size and swell To its huge self, and the minutest fish Would pass the very hardest gazer's wish, And show his little eye's anatomy.” quote by William Blake
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“The gulfing whale was like a dot in the spell. Yet look upon it, and 'twould size and swell To its huge self, and the minutest fish Would pass the very hardest gazer's wish, And show his little eye's anatomy.”

William Blake

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 describes how a tiny creature can seem enormous when observed closely, while even the smallest beings can reveal hidden details to a keen observer.

In simple terms: Seeing small things can reveal great truths.

Key Takeaway

Observe closely, notice details.

Themes

perception scale wonder

Mood

contemplative curious

Type

literary reflective

When to use this quote

  • nature study
  • art critique
  • mindfulness
  • educational illustration

Key Concepts

Poetry metaphor

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does focusing on details change your view?
  • When does magnification become distortion?
A Different Perspective

The metaphor may overstate the impact of observation, ignoring practical limits.

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