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Ocean Quote by Christopher Logue

“There is a kind of ocean wave Whose origin remains obscure. Such waves are solitary, and appear Just off the cliff-line of Antarctica Lifting the ocean's face into the wind, Moistening the wind that pulls, and pulls them on, Until their height (as trees), their width (As continents), pace that…” quote by Christopher Logue
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““There is a kind of ocean wave Whose origin remains obscure. Such waves are solitary, and appear Just off the cliff-line of Antarctica Lifting the ocean's face into the wind, Moistening the wind that pulls, and pulls them on, Until their height (as trees), their width (As continents), pace that wind north for 7,000 miles. And now we see one! - like a stranger coast Faring towards our own, and taste its breath, And watch it whale, then whiten, then decay: Whose rainbow thunder makes our spirits leap.””

Christopher Logue

About This Quote

Source Poem: “Ocean Wave” (published 1975)

The poem likens a mysterious, massive wave to an awe‑inspiring force that lifts spirits, yet ultimately fades.

In simple terms: A huge wave inspires and then fades.

Key Takeaway

Find awe in fleeting wonders.

Themes

nature ephemerality inspiration

Mood

wonderful melancholic

Type

poetic philosophical

When to use this quote

  • travel inspiration
  • creative writing
  • mindfulness practice

Key Concepts

cosmic scale solitude transience

Questions to Reflect On

  • What fleeting moments move you?
  • How do you hold wonder without clinging?
A Different Perspective

Risk of romanticizing destructive forces.

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