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A mouth that has no moisture and no breath Breathless…

“A mouth that has no moisture and no breath Breathless mouths may summon; I hail the superhuman; I call it death-in-life and life-in-death.” quote by William Butler Yeats
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“A mouth that has no moisture and no breath Breathless mouths may summon; I hail the superhuman; I call it death-in-life and life-in-death.”

William Butler Yeats

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

The line juxtaposes emptiness and vitality, suggesting that without essential life forces, existence becomes a paradoxical state of death‑like stillness.

In simple terms: Life without breath feels dead.

Key Takeaway

Recognize the need for essential sustenance.

Themes

existence paradox vitality death life

Mood

melancholic reflective

Type

poetic philosophical

When to use this quote

  • spiritual crisis
  • creative block
  • health decline
  • emotional numbness

Key Concepts

essentialism dualism human condition

Questions to Reflect On

  • What essential element is missing in your life?
  • How can you restore vitality?
A Different Perspective

Even with breath, one may feel lifeless if lacking purpose.

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