Ledges Quote by Kay Ryan
““ Ledge Birds that love high trees and winds and riding flailing branches hate ledges as gripless and narrow, so that a tail is not just no advantage but ridiculous, mashed vertical against the wall. You will have seen the way a bird who falls on skimpy places lifts into the air again in seconds -- a gift denied the rest of us when our portion isn't generous.””
About This Quote
Source Poem: The Edge Birds (title inferred), 2015
Birds accustomed to high, and narrow ledges feel absurd; a tail offers no help, yet a fallen bird can quickly rise, a gift not everyone receives.
In simple terms: High‑flying birds dislike narrow ledges; a fallen bird can rise fast.
Embrace your own unique strengths.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- mountain climbing
- career setbacks
- personal loss
- creative blocks
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- What strengths do you overlook?
- How can you cultivate resilience?
Not everyone can rebound instantly; circumstances differ.