Poetry Quote by E.E. Cummings
““if i or anybody don't know where it her his my next meal's coming from i say to hell with that that doesn't matter (and if he she it or everybody gets a bellyful without lifting my finger i say to hell with that i say that doesn't matter) but if somebody or you are beautiful or deep or generous what i say is whistle that sing that yell that spell that out big (bigger than cosmic rays w ar earthquakes famine or the ex prince of whoses diving into a whatses to rescue miss nobody's probably handbag) because i say that's not swell (get me) babe not (understand me) lousy kid that's something else my sweet (i feel that's true)””
About This Quote
Source Poem: Unpublished, 1960
The speaker dismisses trivial concerns, valuing inner beauty and generosity over material needs.
In simple terms: Value inner beauty and generosity over material concerns.
Key Takeaway
Prioritize inner virtues.
Themes
beauty
generosity
materialism
values
Mood
playful
confessional
Type
poetic
experimental
When to use this quote
- self‑reflection
- artistic expression
- community building
Key Concepts
inner worth
social critique
personal authenticity
Questions to Reflect On
- What does “whistle that sing” symbolize?
- How can generosity outweigh material desire?
A Different Perspective
May be cryptic, limiting clear interpretation.
