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On the grey rock of Cashel I suddenly saw A Sphinx with…

“On the grey rock of Cashel I suddenly saw A Sphinx with woman breast and lion paw, A Buddha, hand at rest, Hand lifted up that blest; And right between these two a girl at play That, it may be, had danced her life away.” quote by William Butler Yeats
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“On the grey rock of Cashel I suddenly saw A Sphinx with woman breast and lion paw, A Buddha, hand at rest, Hand lifted up that blest; And right between these two a girl at play That, it may be, had danced her life away.”

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.

A mystical scene blends mythic figures, suggesting fleeting youth amidst timeless symbols

In simple terms: Mythic imagery reflects life's transient moments

Key Takeaway

Appreciate the present and its fleeting beauty

Themes

mythology transience spirituality

Mood

contemplative melancholic

Type

poetic philosophical

When to use this quote

  • art appreciation
  • mindfulness practice
  • creative writing
  • philosophical discussion

Key Concepts

symbolism archetype existential reflection

Questions to Reflect On

  • What personal meaning do you find in the symbols?
  • How does the image of a dancing girl affect your view of time?
A Different Perspective

Interpretations may vary, limiting concrete meaning

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