Cannibal Quote by Charles Simic
““This strange thing must have crept Right out of hell. It resembles a bird’s foot Worn around the cannibal’s neck. As you hold it in your hand, As you stab with it into a piece of meat, It is possible to imagine the rest of the bird: Its head which like your fist Is large, bald, beakless, and blind.””
About This Quote
Source Poem: “The Bird’s Foot” in *The Collected Poems*, 1995
A grotesque object, imagined as a bird’s foot, evokes horror and absurdity.
In simple terms: A strange, disturbing image is described.
Key Takeaway
Notice how vivid imagery triggers emotional response.
Themes
art
horror
absurdity
imagery
symbolism
Mood
dark
curious
Type
poetic
analytical
When to use this quote
- creative writing
- art critique
- psychology
Key Concepts
grotesque symbolism
visual metaphor
Questions to Reflect On
- What emotions does this image stir?
- Why does the grotesque fascinate?
A Different Perspective
Interpretations may vary widely.
