First time Quote by Jamaica Kincaid
““Oh what a morning it was, that first morning of Mrs. Sweet awaking before the baby Heracles with his angry cries, declaring his hunger, the discomfort of his wet diaper, the very aggravation of being new and in the world; the rays of sun were falling on the just and unjust, the beautiful and the ugly, causing the innocent dew to evaporate; the sun, the dew, the little waterfall right next to the village's firehouse, making a roar, though really it was an imitation of the roar of a real waterfall; the smell of some flower, faint, as it unfurled its petals for the first time: oh what a morning!””
About This Quote
Source Book: Annie John by Jamaica Kincaid, 1985
A vivid portrayal of a newborn’s first day, juxtaposing the chaos of infant needs with the beauty of sunrise and nature.
In simple terms: Morning life is messy yet beautiful.
Key Takeaway
Embrace both chaos and wonder.
Themes
birth
nature
new beginnings
chaos
beauty
Mood
reflective
poetic
hopeful
Type
narrative
descriptive
evocative
When to use this quote
- new parenthood
- morning routines
- observing nature
- appreciating small moments
Key Concepts
sensory detail
contrast
renewal
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you find balance between chaos and beauty?
- What small details bring you peace in hectic times?
A Different Perspective
The description may romanticize hardship, overlooking real exhaustion.
