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The Lily of the valley, breathing in the humble grass…

“The Lily of the valley, breathing in the humble grass Answer'd the lovely maid and said: "I am a watry weed, And I am very small, and love to dwell in lowly vales; So weak, the gilded butterfly scarce perches on my head; Yet I am visited from heaven, and he that smiles on all Walks in the valley…” quote by William Blake
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““The Lily of the valley, breathing in the humble grass Answer'd the lovely maid and said: "I am a watry weed, And I am very small, and love to dwell in lowly vales; So weak, the gilded butterfly scarce perches on my head; Yet I am visited from heaven, and he that smiles on all Walks in the valley and each morn over me spreads his hand, Saying: 'Rejoice, thou humble grass, thou new-born lily flower,””

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 humble grass laments its lowly status but is praised by a divine presence, showing that modesty can be honored by higher powers.

In simple terms: Even lowly things can be valued by the divine.

Key Takeaway

Recognize worth in modest existence.

Themes

humility spirituality nature

Mood

contemplative inspirational

Type

poetic philosophical

When to use this quote

  • gardening
  • personal reflection
  • spiritual practice
  • literary analysis

Key Concepts

divine grace self‑worth

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does humility serve you?
  • What does “lowly” mean in modern life?
A Different Perspective

The metaphor may romanticize suffering.

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