All music is is what awakes from you when you are reminded by the instruments.
Walt WhitmanRead
I have perceiv’d that to be with those I like is enough, To stop in company with the rest at evening is enough, To be surrounded by beautiful, curious, breathing, laughing flesh is enough, To pass among them, or touch any one, or rest my arm ever so lightly round his or her neck for a moment—what is this, then? I do not ask any more delight—I swim in it, as in a sea.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote expresses the joy and fulfillment found in companionship and the beauty of human connection.
Walt Whitman's quote highlights the profound contentment he derives from simply being in the presence of those he cares for. He emphasizes that the joy found in shared moments and the beauty of human interaction is sufficient for his happiness. The imagery of swimming in delight suggests that these experiences are deep, immersive, and wondrous, making him feel complete without needing anything more extravagant.
Themes
HappinessCompanionshipConnectionJoyBeauty
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech about the importance of friendship, I might say, 'As Walt Whitman beautifully expressed, being with those we like is enough to find joy.'
More from Walt Whitman
All quotes →Did you, too, O friend, suppose democracy was only for elections, for politics, and for a party name? I say democracy is only of use there that it may pass on and come to its flower and fruit in manners, in the highest forms of interaction between people, and their beliefs - in religion, literature, colleges and schools- democracy in all public and private life.
Walt WhitmanRead
In the confusion we stay with each other, happy to be together, speaking without uttering a single word.
Walt WhitmanRead
A morning-glory at my window satisfies me more than the metaphysics of books.
Walt WhitmanRead
Now, dearest comrade, lift me to your face,_x000D_ _x000D_ We must separate awhileHere! take from my lips this kiss._x000D_ _x000D_ Whoever you are, I give it especially to you;_x000D_ _x000D_ So long!And I hope we shall meet again.
Walt WhitmanRead
And whoever walks a furlong without sympathy walks to his own funeral drest in his shroud.
Walt WhitmanRead
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