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Darling Quote by Mary Oliver

“Along with the differences that abide in each of us, there is also in each of us a maverick, the darling stubborn one who won't listen, who insists, who chooses preference or the spirited guess over yardsticks or even history. I suspect this maverick is somewhat what the soul is, or at least that…” quote by Mary Oliver
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“Along with the differences that abide in each of us, there is also in each of us a maverick, the darling stubborn one who won't listen, who insists, who chooses preference or the spirited guess over yardsticks or even history. I suspect this maverick is somewhat what the soul is, or at least that the soul lives close by and companionably with its agitating and inquiring force.”

Mary Oliver

About This Quote

Source Poetry Collection: New and Selected Poems, 1992

Each person contains a rebellious, inquisitive spirit that drives curiosity and defies conventional measures.

In simple terms: We all have a stubborn, questioning inner voice.

Key Takeaway

Listen to and inner maverick.

Themes

individuality creativity rebellion self‑discovery

Mood

reflective inspirational

Type

philosophical literary

When to use this quote

  • creative writing
  • personal decision‑making
  • conflict resolution

Key Concepts

existentialism inner voice authenticity

Questions to Reflect On

  • What does your inner rebel want to express?
  • How can you balance curiosity with responsibility?
A Different Perspective

The maverick may clash with social harmony or practical constraints.

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