Arms Quote by Walt Whitman
“...of two simple men I saw today on the pier in the midst of the crowd, parting the parting of dear friends, the one to remain hung on the other's neck and passionately kissed him. While the one to depart tightly pressed the one to remain in his arms.”
About This Quote
Source Poem: Leaves of Grass, 1855
Two men display deep affection, one clinging while the other departs, showing love’s complexity.
In simple terms: Friends can love intensely even when parting.
Cherish closeness, even in goodbye.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- farewell at a pier
- public displays of affection
- support during separation
- celebrating bonds
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you express love when saying goodbye?
- What does this reveal about attachment?
Interpretations may view the scene as platonic, not romantic.