Swallows Quote by Cao Xueqin
““Not chewed-off ends of the sky’s embroidery? ‘What are they?’ – ‘Raise the blind a bit and see.’ ‘A white hand snatches some and draws it in, Pursued by the swallows’ chiding din. Oh stay, oh stay! The lovely spring drifts after you away.””
About This Quote
Source Novel: Dream of the Red Chamber by Cao Xueqin, 18th century
A poetic observation of fleeting beauty and the desire to grasp moments that slip away like swallows in spring.
In simple terms: Chasing fleeting beauty is futile.
Key Takeaway
Appreciate the present without trying to capture it.
Themes
beauty
impermanence
longing
Mood
wistancholy
contemplative
Type
literary
poetic
When to use this quote
- watching sunrise
- appreciating art
- reflecting on change
- mindful observation
Key Concepts
poetry
visual metaphor
Questions to Reflect On
- What moments do you try to hold onto?
- How can you honor fleeting beauty without clinging?
A Different Perspective
Even when we try to hold onto moments, they transform and move beyond our reach.
