Skip to content

Gate Quote by Wendell Berry

“Why must the gate be narrow? Because you cannot pass beyond it burdened. To come into the woods you must leave behind the six day's world, all of it, all of its plans and hopes. You must come without weapon or tool, alone, expecting nothing, remembering nothing, into the ease of sight, the…” quote by Wendell Berry
Download Open image
““Why must the gate be narrow? Because you cannot pass beyond it burdened. To come into the woods you must leave behind the six day's world, all of it, all of its plans and hopes. You must come without weapon or tool, alone, expecting nothing, remembering nothing, into the ease of sight, the brotherhood of eye and leaf.””

Wendell Berry

About This Quote

Source Book: The Unsettling of America, 1997

The passage urges shedding worldly burdens and expectations to truly experience nature’s simplicity and unity.

In simple terms: Let go of possessions and plans to connect with nature.

Key Takeaway

Enter nature empty‑handed and open‑minded.

Themes

simplicity spirituality nature detachment

Mood

calm reflective reverent

Type

philosophical inspirational poetic

When to use this quote

  • hiking
  • forest retreats
  • meditation
  • camping
  • solo travel

Key Concepts

mindfulness renunciation presence

Questions to Reflect On

  • What would you leave behind to feel freer?
  • How does letting go change your perception?
A Different Perspective

If you cling to expectations, you miss the forest for the trees.

3.8 out of 5 (10 ratings)

More by Wendell Berry

Explore all 847 Wendell Berry quotes

More Gate quotes

Browse all 77 Gate quotes