Beautiful daughter Quote by Charles Simic
““Eyes Fastened With Pins" How much death works, No one knows what a long Day he puts in. The little Wife always alone Ironing death's laundry. The beautiful daughters Setting death's supper table. The neighbors playing Pinochle in the backyard Or just sitting on the steps Drinking beer. Death, Meanwhile, in a strange Part of town looking for Someone with a bad cough, But the address somehow wrong, Even death can't figure it out Among all the locked doors... And the rain beginning to fall. Long windy night ahead. Death with not even a newspaper To cover his head, not even A dime to call the one pining away, Undressing slowly, sleepily, And stretching naked On death's side of the bed.””
About This Quote
Source Poem: “Eyes Fastened With Pins” (published in 1970s)
Death is portrayed as a weary, almost bureaucratic figure, unable to find a proper address among the living, highlighting the absurdity of mortality.
In simple terms: Death is confused and helpless.
Key Takeaway
Recognize life's fragility and absurdity.
Themes
mortality
absurdity
loneliness
Mood
somber
thoughtful
Type
poetic
philosophical
When to use this quote
- nighttime reflections
- urban loneliness
- contemplating death
Key Concepts
existentialism
dark humor
Questions to Reflect On
- What does the poem suggest about death's power?
- How does humor affect our view of mortality?
