Poetry Quote by Sue Monk Kidd
““When someone tries to put you back into a box from which you’ve already escaped, you might recall a line from the Indian poet Mirabai. She said, “I have felt the swaying of the elephant’s shoulders and now you want me to climb on a jackass? Try to be serious!”13””
About This Quote
The quote uses vivid metaphor to reject being forced back into limiting roles, urging serious, authentic self‑expression.
In simple terms: Reject limiting labels; stay authentic.
Key Takeaway
Embrace freedom, reject constraints.
Themes
freedom
authenticity
resistance
Mood
defiant
reflective
Type
literary
philosophical
When to use this quote
- creative work
- personal boundaries
- social activism
- career changes
- artistic expression
Key Concepts
metaphor
identity
cultural critique
Questions to Reflect On
- What “boxes” limit you?
- How can you assert seriousness without aggression?
A Different Perspective
May be misinterpreted as dismissive of guidance.
