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Highland Quote by Mikhail Lermontov

“I know a rock in a highland's ravine, On which only eagles might ever be seen, But a black wooden cross o'er a precipice reigns, It rots and it ages from tempests and rains. And many years have gone without any hints, From times when it was seen from faraway hills. And its every arm is raised up…” quote by Mikhail Lermontov
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““I know a rock in a highland's ravine, On which only eagles might ever be seen, But a black wooden cross o'er a precipice reigns, It rots and it ages from tempests and rains. And many years have gone without any hints, From times when it was seen from faraway hills. And its every arm is raised up to the sky, As if catching clouds or going to fly. Oh, if I were able to rise there and stay, Then how I'd cry there and how I'd pray; And then I would throw off real life's chains And live as a brother of tempests and rains!””

Mikhail Lermontov

About This Quote

Source Poem: “The Black Cross” by Mikhail Lermontov, 1840

A yearning for transcendence, to escape earthly suffering and become one with nature’s wild forces.

In simple terms: Desire to rise above pain and join the storm.

Key Takeaway

Seek freedom beyond material limits.

Themes

freedom transcendence nature spirituality

Mood

melancholic hopeful

Type

poetic inspirational

When to use this quote

  • mountain climbing
  • creative writing
  • meditation
  • storm chasing

Key Concepts

existential longing symbolism nature worship

Questions to Reflect On

  • What would you give up to feel truly free?
  • How does nature inspire your sense of purpose?
A Different Perspective

The metaphor may romanticize suffering, ignoring practical coping.

3.7 out of 5 (4 ratings)

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