Skip to content

Conceived Quote by Czesław Miłosz

“I still think too much about the mothers And ask what is man born of woman. He curls himself up and protects his head While he is kicked by heavy boots; on fire and running, He burns with bright flame; a bulldozer sweeps him into a clay pit. Her child. Embracing a teddy bear. Conceived in ecstasy.” quote by Czesław Miłosz
Download Open image
““I still think too much about the mothers And ask what is man born of woman. He curls himself up and protects his head While he is kicked by heavy boots; on fire and running, He burns with bright flame; a bulldozer sweeps him into a clay pit. Her child. Embracing a teddy bear. Conceived in ecstasy.””

Czesław Miłosz

About This Quote

Source Poem: “A Song on the End of the World” (collection) by Czesław Miłosz, 1971

The poem reflects on human vulnerability, the paradox of creation, and the fragile, often violent, circumstances that shape existence.

In simple terms: Life is fragile and shaped by both love and hardship.

Key Takeaway

Recognize both tenderness and danger in life.

Themes

vulnerability creation violence humanity

Mood

reflective somber

Type

poetic philosophical

When to use this quote

  • war zones
  • parenthood
  • personal trauma
  • creative inspiration

Key Concepts

existentialism paradox contradiction

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you reconcile love and suffering?
  • What does “burns with bright flame” symbolize?
A Different Perspective

The abstract language can obscure concrete meaning for some readers.

3.6 out of 5 (6 ratings)

More by Czesław Miłosz

Explore all 29 Czesław Miłosz quotes

More Conceived quotes

Browse all 48 Conceived quotes