Baseball Quote by W.P. Kinsella
““God what an outfield,' he says. 'What a left field.' He looks up at me, and I look down at him. 'This must be heaven,' he says. 'No. It's Iowa,' I reply automatically. But then I feel the night rubbing softly against my face like cherry blossoms; look at the sleeping girl-child in my arms, her small hand curled around one of my fingers; think of the fierce warmth of the woman waiting for me in the house; inhale the fresh-cut grass small that seems locked in the air like permanent incense; and listen to the drone of the crowd, as below me Shoeless Joe Jackson tenses, watching the angle of the distant bat for a clue as to where the ball will be hit. 'I think you're right, Joe,' I say, but softly enough not to disturb his concentration.””
About This Quote
Source Novel: Shoeless Joe, 1985
A narrator blends baseball metaphors with intimate domestic moments, reflecting on love, longing, and the fleeting nature of joy.
In simple terms: Baseball imagery meets tender family scenes, highlighting fleeting happiness.
Key Takeaway
Cherish small, sensory moments.
Themes
love
nostalgia
family
sports
transcendence
Mood
reflective
sentimental
intimate
Type
literary
poetic
contemplative
When to use this quote
- Watching a game
- holding a child
- thinking of a partner
- feeling summer air
Key Concepts
Sensory detail
metaphor
contrast
Questions to Reflect On
- How do everyday sensations shape our memories?
- What does baseball symbolize for the narrator?
A Different Perspective
The poetic style may obscure practical takeaways for some readers.
