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Ale Quote by Gerard Manley Hopkins

“I consider my selfbeing ... that taste of myself, of I and me above and in all things, which is more distinctive than the taste of ale or alum, more distinctive than the smell of walnutleaf or camphor, and is incommunicable by any means to another man.” quote by Gerard Manley Hopkins
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“I consider my selfbeing ... that taste of myself, of I and me above and in all things, which is more distinctive than the taste of ale or alum, more distinctive than the smell of walnutleaf or camphor, and is incommunicable by any means to another man.”

Gerard Manley Hopkins

About This Quote

Source Poem: “The Windhover” (1902) and other works

The poet describes a unique, ineffable personal essence that surpasses ordinary sensory experiences, defying ordinary description.

In simple terms: Personal essence is beyond ordinary description.

Key Takeaway

Recognize the uniqueness of your inner self.

Themes

identity spirituality individuality

Mood

contemplative introspective

Type

poetic philosophical

When to use this quote

  • personal reflection
  • creative writing
  • therapy
  • spiritual practice

Key Concepts

ineffability self‑perception

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you express your inner uniqueness?
  • Can language ever fully capture self?
A Different Perspective

Such self‑descriptions can be inaccessible to others, limiting shared understanding.

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