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Both nuns and mothers worship images, But those the…

“Both nuns and mothers worship images, But those the candles light are not as those That animate a mother's reveries, But keep a marble or a bronze repose.” quote by William Butler Yeats
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“Both nuns and mothers worship images, But those the candles light are not as those That animate a mother's reveries, But keep a marble or a bronze repose.”

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 quote contrasts the static, material worship of images with the vivid, imaginative reverence of a mother’s inner world, suggesting true devotion lies in lived imagination rather than mere objects.

In simple terms: Worship of images is shallow compared to inner imagination.

Key Takeaway

Seek deeper, personal meaning beyond symbols.

Themes

spirituality art imagination family religion

Mood

reflective contemplative

Type

poetic philosophical

When to use this quote

  • religious rituals
  • art galleries
  • family storytelling
  • personal meditation

Key Concepts

symbolism psychology mythology

Questions to Reflect On

  • What personal symbols give your life meaning?
  • How do you nurture inner imagination?
A Different Perspective

Symbols can become empty without personal connection.

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