Children Quote by Amy Clampitt
““Meridian First daylight on the bittersweet-hung sleeping porch at high summer; dew all over the lawn, sowing diamond- point-highlighted shadows; the hired man's shadow revolving along the walk, a flash of milkpails passing; no threat in sight, no hint anywhere in the universe, of that apathy at the meridian, the noon of absolute boredom; flies crooning black lullabies in the kitchen, milk-soured crocks, cream separator still unwashed; what is there to life but chores and more chores, dishwater, fatigue, unwanted children; nothing to stir the longueur of afternoon except possibly thunderheads; climbing, livid, turreted alabaster lit up from within by splendor and terror -- forded lightening's split-second disaster.””
About This Quote
Source Poem: Meridian, by Amy Clampitt, 1975
The poem portrays a stagnant, oppressive afternoon where routine chores dominate, highlighting existential boredom and fleeting moments of awe amidst monotony.
In simple terms: A dull day filled with chores feels endless, yet brief wonders appear.
Key Takeaway
Seek moments of wonder amid routine.
Themes
boredom
routine
existential
nature
beauty
Mood
contemplative
melancholic
reflective
Type
poetic
descriptive
philosophical
When to use this quote
- household chores
- summer afternoon
- creative writing
- mindfulness
- finding beauty in daily life
Key Concepts
monotony
transience
sensory detail
mundane vs sublime
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you create meaning in repetitive tasks?
- What small details bring you joy?
A Different Perspective
Even small wonders can be eclipsed by overwhelming tedium.
![“I will be known forever as the Puppy who chased a cutpurse and caught fish garbage instead. My descendants will pretend I'm not in their bloodline. No – no one will want to make descendants with me. [from Beka Cooper's journal of her first day as a new Dog i.e. cop]” quote by Tamora Pierce](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/6d5/tamora-pierce-935_beka-cooper_i-will-be-known-forever-as-the-puppy-who_17776.jpg)
