Beats Quote by Anonymous
“Now small fowls flew screaming over the yet yawning gulf; a sullen white surf beat against its steep sides; then all collapsed; and the great shroud of the sea rolled on as it rolled five thousand years ago.”
About This Quote
Source Poem: Unknown, likely 19th‑century sea narrative
A vivid description of a storm‑tossed sea, emphasizing its ancient, relentless power and the fleeting nature of human life against it.
In simple terms: The sea is ancient and indifferent, crushing all that passes.
Key Takeaway
Recognize nature’s vastness and humility.
Themes
nature
impermanence
power
solitude
Mood
awe
melancholy
Type
descriptive
poetic
When to use this quote
- sailing
- coastal travel
- storm watching
- philosophical reflection
Key Concepts
maritime
mythic
existential
Questions to Reflect On
- How does confronting nature’s scale affect your priorities?
- What does the sea symbolize for you?
A Different Perspective
Human concerns are trivial in the face of geological time.
![“[T]hen all collapsed, and the great shroud of the sea rolled on as it rolled five thousand years ago.” quote by Herman Melville](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/22c/herman-melville-162_collapsed_t-hen-all-collapsed-and-the-great-shroud_2923694.jpg)
