Flower Quote by Gertrud Kolmar
““The Swan Oh, a swan! Blooming in grace and power. Were you thrown out of the forest of reeds by Pan To flourish as a white rose-flower? Do not doubt: Over the tired waves An unearthly light shines out; He hides his bright plumage. The face of the flood-tide Grows clearer and clearer to see. Poppy-milk ripples, runs wide, Where the wings rested momentarily. Image of woman, He sings the deepest of deaths; Out of the glass-cold dew The sweet silence drips from his breath. Cup of down, Defenceless, utterly abandoning, He has forgotten the sound And the dreams by evening. Floating, drifting, Changed into golden grey, The swan is singing A song whose end is sadness and decay.””
About This Quote
Source Poem: “The Swan” by Gertrud Kolmar, published 1930s
The poem reflects on a swan’s graceful yet fragile existence, juxtaposing beauty with inevitable decay and melancholy.
In simple terms: Beauty is fragile and fades.
Key Takeaway
Cherish fleeting grace.
Themes
beauty
fragility
transience
melancholy
nature
Mood
somber
reflective
poetic
Type
literary
metaphorical
emotive
When to use this quote
- watching wildlife
- contemplating art
- grieving loss
- appreciating moments
- writing poetry
Key Concepts
existence
impermanence
symbolism
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you find meaning in fleeting beauty?
- What does the swan symbolize for you?
A Different Perspective
The lyrical tone may romanticize suffering, overlooking resilience.
