Good enough Quote by Anne Sexton
““ Words Be careful of words, even the miraculous ones. For the miraculous we do our best, sometimes they swarm like insects and leave not a sting but a kiss. They can be as good as fingers. They can be as trusty as the rock you stick your bottom on. But they can be both daisies and bruises. Yet I am in love with words. They are doves falling out of the ceiling. They are six holy oranges sitting in my lap. They are the trees, the legs of summer, and the sun, its passionate face. Yet often they fail me. I have so much I want to say, so many stories, images, proverbs, etc. But the words aren't good enough, the wrong ones kiss me. Sometimes I fly like an eagle but with the wings of a wren. But I try to take care and be gentle to them. Words and eggs must be handled with care. Once broken they are impossible things to repair.””
About This Quote
Source Poem: Collected Poems, Anne Sexton, 1975
Words have power to heal and harm; they can be beautiful or painful, and must be chosen carefully.
In simple terms: Words can be both gentle and sharp.
Key Takeaway
Treat language with care.
Themes
language
creativity
vulnerability
Mood
reflective
poetic
Type
literary
inspirational
When to use this quote
- writing
- public speaking
- personal reflection
Key Concepts
metaphor
symbolism
communication
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you choose words that honor your intent?
- When have words surprised you with their impact?
A Different Perspective
Words may fail to capture true feeling.
![“A noble man is led far by woman's gentle words. [Ger., Ein edler Mann wird durch ein gutes Wort Der Frauen weit gefuhrt.]” quote by Johann Wolfgang von Goethe](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/dd4/johann-wolfgang-von-goethe-36_feminism_a-noble-man-is-led-far-by-woman-s-gentle_2882640.jpg)
