Open book Quote by Robert Lowell
““Reading Myself" Like thousands I took just pride and more than just, struck matches that brought my blood to a boil; I memorized the tricks to set the river on fire-- somehow never wrote something to go back to. Can I suppose I am finished with wax flowers and have earned my grass on the minor slopes of Parnassus... No honeycomb is built without a bee adding circle to circle, cell to cell, the wax and honey of a mausoleum-- this round dome proves its maker is alive; the corpse of the insect lives embalmed in honey, prays that its perishable work live long enough for the sweet tooth bear to desecrate-- this open book..my open coffin””
About This Quote
Source Poem: “Reading Myself”, 1970s collection, unpublished manuscript
The poet reflects on creative struggle, fearing his work is fleeting and that his effort may be meaningless without lasting impact.
In simple terms: Artistic effort can feel futile without recognition or permanence.
Key Takeaway
Create for intrinsic value, not just external validation.
Themes
art
mortality
legacy
creativity
Mood
contemplative
melancholic
Type
literary
philosophical
When to use this quote
- writing workshops
- personal journaling
- creative retreats
- literary criticism
Key Concepts
impermanence
self‑critique
artistic purpose
Questions to Reflect On
- What does your work mean to you beyond legacy?
- How can you measure success beyond fame?
A Different Perspective
The poet’s self‑imposed standards may ignore the inherent worth of expression.
