Poem Quote by John Masefield
““(...) It,s hard not to be able. There, look there!/ I cannot get the movement nor the light;/Sometimes it almost makes a man despair/To try and try and never get it right./Oh, if I could -oh, if I only might,/I wouldn,t mind what hells I,d have to pass,/Not if the whole world called me fool and ass." Dauber (A poem). John Masefield. 1916. London William Heinemann””
About This Quote
Source Poem: 1916, London William Heinemann
The speaker feels trapped by inability, yearning for light and movement, fearing ridicule and endless failure.
In simple terms: Feeling stuck and desperate for progress.
Key Takeaway
Accept struggle, seek help, keep trying.
Themes
frustration
despair
determination
Mood
melancholic
hopeful
Type
poetic
reflective
When to use this quote
- creative block
- personal growth
- mental health
- overcoming self‑doubt
Key Concepts
existential crisis
human resilience
Questions to Reflect On
- What inner resources can sustain you when external success feels impossible?
- How can you reframe perceived failure as learning?
A Different Perspective
Even with effort, progress may be slow and external judgment persists.
