Better world Quote by Charles Bukowski
““I know a woman who keeps buying puzzles chinese puzzles blocks wires pieces that finally fit into some order. she works it out mathmatically she solves all her puzzles lives down by the sea puts sugar out for the ants and believes ultimately in a better world. her hair is white she seldom combs it her teeth are snaggled and she wears loose shapeless coveralls over a body most women would wish they had. for many years she irritated me with what I considered her eccentricities- like soaking eggshells in water (to feed the plants so that they'd get calcium). but finally when I think of her life and compare it to other lives more dazzling, original and beautiful I realize that she has hurt fewer people than anybody I know (and by hurt I simply mean hurt). she has had some terrible times, times when maybe I should have helped her more for she is the mother of my only child and we were once great lovers, but she has come through like I said she has hurt fewer people than anybody I know, and if you look at it like that, well, she has created a better world. she has won. Frances, this poem is for you.””
About This Quote
Source Poem: Unpublished, addressed to Frances, 1970s
A portrait of an unconventional woman whose small acts of care and eccentricities cause less harm than many, suggesting moral worth lies in minimizing hurt and nurturing a better world.
In simple terms: She lives uniquely, hurting few and creating good.
Key Takeaway
Value kindness over conformity.
Themes
eccentricity
compassion
impact
family
resilience
Mood
reflective
admiring
Type
poetic
personal
When to use this quote
- parenting
- relationship reflection
- community building
- environmental stewardship
Key Concepts
moral philosophy
humanism
personal narrative
Questions to Reflect On
- How do small, caring actions outweigh larger achievements?
- What defines a better world for you?
A Different Perspective
Her unconventional habits may be misunderstood, limiting broader acceptance.
