Century Quote by Robert Penn Warren
“Tell me a story. / In this century, and moment, of mania, tell me a story. / Make it a story of great distances, and starlight. / The name of the story will be time, / But you must not speak its name. / Tell me a story of deep delight.”
About This Quote
Source Poem: "Tell Me a Story" from the collection "The Collected Poems of Robert Penn Warren", 1970
The poet asks for a tale that spans vast distances and cosmic wonder, urging the storyteller to convey deep joy without naming the concept of time itself.
In simple terms: Seek a story of wonder and joy without mentioning its name.
Key Takeaway
Create narratives that evoke awe while respecting constraints.
Themes
creativity
storytelling
cosmic wonder
Mood
contemplative
inspired
Type
poetic
philosophical
When to use this quote
- creative writing workshops
- literary analysis
- personal reflection
Key Concepts
narrative technique
constraint writing
philosophical themes
Questions to Reflect On
- How does omitting a word shape meaning?
- What emotions arise from cosmic storytelling?
A Different Perspective
The restriction may limit expression and lead to forced symbolism.
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