If a poet interprets a poem of his own he limits its suggestibility.
William Butler YeatsRead
We have fallen in the dreams the ever-living Breathe on the tarnished mirror of the world, And then smooth out with ivory hands and sigh.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote reflects on how dreams influence reality, and how beauty can be nurtured despite imperfections.
In this quote, Yeats poetically explores the idea that our aspirations and dreams can shape the world around us, much like the gentle touch of a hand smoothing out imperfections on a mirror. The 'ever-living' force represents the ongoing nature of inspiration and creativity that breathes life into our experiences, reminding us of the delicate interplay between the ideal and the flawed aspects of reality.
Themes
DreamsRealityBeautyInspirationArt
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be used in a speech about the power of creativity in shaping the world.
More from William Butler Yeats
All quotes βIt was my first meeting with a philosophy that confirmed my vague speculations and seemed at once logical and boundless.
William Butler YeatsRead
But I, being poor, have only my dreams; I have spread my dreams under your feet; Tread softly because you tread on my dreams.
William Butler YeatsRead
How far away the stars seem, and how far is our first kiss, and ah, how old my heart.
William Butler YeatsRead
For he would be thinking of love Till the stars had run away And the shadows eaten the moon.
William Butler YeatsRead
Love is created and preserved by intellectual analysis, for we love only that which is unique, and it belongs to contemplation, not to action, for we would not change that which we love.
William Butler YeatsRead
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