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Adam Quote by Derek Walcott

“The second Adam since the fall His germinal Corruption held the seed Of that congenital heresy that men fail According to their creed. Craftsman and castaway All heaven in his head, He watched his shadow pray Not for God’s love but human love instead.” quote by Derek Walcott
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““The second Adam since the fall His germinal Corruption held the seed Of that congenital heresy that men fail According to their creed. Craftsman and castaway All heaven in his head, He watched his shadow pray Not for God’s love but human love instead.””

Derek Walcott

About This Quote

Source Poem: "The Second Adam" (excerpt), 1970

A lament that humanity repeats ancient sins, seeking love in human constructs rather than divine.

In simple terms: Humans repeat old errors, chasing human love over divine.

Key Takeaway

Recognize and break cycles of inherited corruption.

Themes

faith human nature corruption love

Mood

melancholic contemplative

Type

poetic philosophical

When to use this quote

  • personal relationships
  • spiritual seeking
  • cultural critique

Key Concepts

theology psychology mythology

Questions to Reflect On

  • What inherited beliefs shape your actions?
  • Can you find divine love within?
A Different Perspective

Divine love may be dismissed as unattainable.

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