There is no feeling, except the extremes of fear and grief, that does not find relief in music.
T. S. EliotRead
Because these wings are no longer wings to fly But merely vans to beat the air The air which is now thoroughly small and dry Smaller and dryer than the will Teach us to care and not to care Teach us to sit still
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote reflects on the limitations of human potential and the struggle between action and inaction.
In this quote, T. S. Eliot articulates a deep existential reflection on the nature of human ambition and the futility of certain pursuits. The imagery of wings transforming into mere 'vans' signifies how aspirations can become burdensome and ineffective in a world that feels unyielding and dry. It speaks to the idea that sometimes, instead of striving for unattainable goals, we must learn to be still and accept our circumstances.
Themes
ExistentialismAcceptanceStillnessAmbitionStruggle
In practice
Example use cases
In a discussion about coping with failure, this quote can serve as a reminder to embrace stillness and acceptance.
More from T. S. Eliot
All quotes →Half of the harm that is done in this world is due to people who want to feel important. They don't mean to do harm. But the harm does not interest them.
T. S. EliotRead
I am an Anglo-Catholic in religion, a classicist in literature and a royalist in politics.
T. S. EliotRead
If you aren't in over your head, how do you know how tall you are?
T. S. EliotRead
For I have known them all already, known them all— Have known the evenings, mornings, afternoons, I have measured out my life with coffee spoons.
T. S. EliotRead
In the faint moonlight, the grass is singing
T. S. EliotRead
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