Skip to content

Accepting Quote by W. S. Merwin

“I also think that life itself is both indifferent to us and the source of all of our joys and everything that we love. And it's necessary to accept the one in order to love the other.” quote by W. S. Merwin
Download Open image
“I also think that life itself is both indifferent to us and the source of all of our joys and everything that we love. And it's necessary to accept the one in order to love the other.”

W. S. Merwin

About This Quote

Source Poem: The Sea of the World, 1975

Life is indifferent yet the source of joy; accepting this duality enables love.

In simple terms: Life is indifferent but gives joy; accept both.

Key Takeaway

Accept life’s indifference to love fully.

Themes

existentialism joy acceptance

Mood

contemplative poetic

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • grief coping
  • relationship building
  • creative writing
  • mindfulness practice

Key Concepts

dualism philosophy

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does accepting indifference affect your relationships?
  • Can joy exist without acceptance?
A Different Perspective

Indifference can feel cold, challenging love.

4.1 out of 5 (9 ratings)

More by W. S. Merwin

Explore all 64 W. S. Merwin quotes

More Accepting quotes

Browse all 6,788 Accepting quotes