Longing Quote by Susan Power
““A permanent dull ache spread from my belly to my chest. I thought I could feel pinpricks of loneliness in the pads of my fingers, taste it in the back of my mouth. Clara Miller must have been lonely too, longing to be touched. One day as she sat before her metal tub filled to the rim with sweet corn, she reached behind her head and unpinned her silver hair. It tumbled down her back like creamy lace cloak. She hiked her skirts to her knees and I could see she had removed her stockings. Her legs were heavy and milk white, solid as columns. She hiked her skirts higher, until they bunched in her lap. When I kissed the back of her neck she quivered, like the dying peasant I’d shot and killed a week before. Her silver hair smelled like smoke. Clara and I tangled together like the bale of wire resting beside the unrepaired chicken coop. We were shameless, falling to the ground, wading into the creek, making our way to her bed.””
About This Quote
Source Short story: “The Sweet Corn” (fictional), 2010
A vivid, sensual narrative explores loneliness, desire, and bodily connection, using tactile imagery and metaphor to convey deep emotional yearning.
In simple terms: A sensual story about loneliness and desire using vivid imagery.
Key Takeaway
Embrace vulnerability to connect deeply with others.
Themes
loneliness
desire
body
connection
sensuality
Mood
intense
raw
poetic
Type
literary
emotional
sensory
When to use this quote
- intimate conversation
- therapy session
- artistic performance
- personal reflection
Key Concepts
psychology
embodiment
metaphor
Questions to Reflect On
- How does physical intimacy alleviate emotional isolation?
- What does the silver hair symbolize?
A Different Perspective
The graphic detail may alienate some readers or obscure broader themes.
