Flesh Quote by Jack Gilbert
““Angelus" Obsidian. Sturgeon. Infatuated angels. Which only we can translate into flesh. The language to which we alone are native. Our own bait. We are spirits housed in meat, instantly opaque to the Lord. As Jesus. We go into the deadfall of the body, our hearts in their marvelous cases and discover new belfries everywhere. I continued toward the Minotaur keep the thread taut. And suddenly, now, immense flowers are coloring all my stalked body. Making wine of me. As bells get music of metal in the rain. The prey I am willingly prospers. The exile that comes on comes too late. I go to it as Adam, singing across paradise.””
About This Quote
Source Poem: “Angelus” by Jack Gilbert, 1970s
The speaker sees humanity as spiritual beings trapped in flesh, yearning for transcendence and connection to a divine language, using mythic imagery of angels and Minotaur to explore identity and longing.
In simple terms: We are spirits in bodies seeking deeper meaning.
Key Takeaway
Embrace the divine within.
Themes
spirituality
identity
mythology
transcendence
Mood
reflective
hopeful
Type
poetic
philosophical
When to use this quote
- personal meditation
- creative writing
- artistic inspiration
- spiritual practice
Key Concepts
existentialism
symbolism
mythic archetypes
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you recognize the divine in daily routines?
- What myths shape your sense of self?
A Different Perspective
The metaphor may obscure practical guidance for everyday life.
