If a poet interprets a poem of his own he limits its suggestibility.
William Butler YeatsRead
His element is so fine _x000D_ _x000D_ Being sharpened by his death, _x000D_ _x000D_ To drink from the wine-breath _x000D_ _x000D_ While our gross palates drink from the whole wine.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote reflects on the profound nature of experiencing life and art at a deeper level, beyond the surface.
In this quote, William Butler Yeats suggests that true essence or depth is often revealed through sacrifice or loss, pointing out that the most refined experiences ('his element') can only be fully appreciated in light of profound change or death. The 'wine-breath' symbolizes the rich, subliminal experiences of life that a select few can truly savor, while others merely experience the superficial aspects ('whole wine').
Themes
LifeArtDepthExperienceSacrifice
In practice
Example use cases
In a graduation speech to inspire students to seek deeper understanding in their lives.
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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