Perhaps it is the greatest grief, after all, to be left on earth when another is gone.
Madeline MillerRead
We were like gods at the dawning of the world, & our joy was so bright we could see nothing else but the other.
Interpretation
The quote expresses a profound connection and joy experienced in a relationship, likening it to divine feelings.
In this quote, Madeline Miller captures the euphoria and intensity of love, suggesting that in the early stages of a deep connection, individuals can feel almost transcendent, as if they possess a god-like joy that eclipses everything else. The image of being 'like gods at the dawning of the world' evokes a sense of wonder and new beginnings, focusing solely on the cherished bond shared with another person, enhancing the beauty and exclusivity of this love.
In practice
In a wedding speech, to highlight the divine feeling of love.
Perhaps it is the greatest grief, after all, to be left on earth when another is gone.
When I first started studying Greek, one of my absolute favorite parts was realizing that so many English words had these old, secret roots. Learning Greek was like being given a super-power: linguistic x-ray vision.
I found myself grinning until my cheeks hurt, my scalp prickling till I thought it might lift off my head. My tongue ran away from me, giddy with freedom. This, and this, and this, I said to him. I did not have to fear that I spoke too much. I did not have to worry that I was too slender, or too slow. This and this and this! I taught him how to skip stones, and he taught me how to carve wood. I could feel every nerve in my body, every brush of air against my skin.
I stopped watching for ridicule, the scorpion's tail hidden in his words. He said what he meant; he was puzzled if you did not. Some people might have mistaken this for simplicity. But is it not a sort of genius to cut always to the heart?
Chiron had said once that nations were the most foolish of mortal inventions. "No man is worth more than another, wherever he is from.
Even this late it happens the coming of love, the coming of light. You wake and the candles are lit as if by themselves, stars gather, dreams pour into your pillows, sending up warm bouquets of air. Even this late the bones of the body shine and tomorrow’s dust flares into breath.
There are many kinds of smiles, each having a distinct character. Some announce goodness and sweetness, others betray sarcasm, bitterness and pride; some soften the countenance by their languishing tenderness, others brighten by their spiritual vivacity.
I don't need the stars in the night I found my treasure All I need is you by my side so shine forever
Kind are her answers, But her performance keeps no day; Breaks time, as dancers. From their own Music when they stray.
It is love alone that leads to right action. What brings order in the world is to love and let love do what it will.
Music I heard with you was more than music, and bread I broke with you was more than bread. Now that I am without you, all is desolate; all that was once so beautiful is dead.
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