Crutches Quote by Charles Simic
““The Something" Here come my night thoughts On crutches, Returning from studying the heavens. What they thought about Stayed the same, Stayed immense and incomprehensible. My mother and father smile at each other Knowingly above the mantel. The cat sleeps on, the dog Growls in his sleep. The stove is cold and so is the bed. Now there are only these crutches To contend with. Go ahead and laugh, while I raise one With difficulty, Swaying on the front porch, While pointing at something In the gray distance. You see nothing, eh? Neither do I, Mr. Milkman. I better hit you once or twice over the head With this fine old prop, So you don't go off muttering I saw something!””
About This Quote
Source Poem: "The Something", 1972
The poem portrays weary contemplation of existence, using domestic scenes and surreal imagery to express existential fatigue.
In simple terms: Life feels heavy and confusing.
Key Takeaway
Find meaning amid mundane fatigue.
Themes
existence
fatigue
surrealism
Mood
melancholic
introspective
Type
literary
philosophical
When to use this quote
- late-night thoughts
- creative writing
- mental health
Key Concepts
mundane vs. cosmic
loneliness
absurdity
Questions to Reflect On
- What personal "crutches" support you?
- How do you confront existential boredom?
A Different Perspective
The abstract style may obscure clear interpretation for some readers.
