"ليس لدي طموحات ولا رغبات. أن أكون شاعراً ليس طموحي، بل طريقتي في أن أكون وحيداً."

The essence of the quote is that the speaker finds solace and a sense of self through poetry, rather than chasing any specific ambition or desire. It’s about finding comfort in an activity that feels natural and essential to one's being, rather than something driven by external goals or societal expectations.

Imagine someone who writes poetry not to become famous or to earn a living, but simply because it feels like a part of who they are. For them, poetry isn’t a means to an end—it’s an end in itself. It’s like breathing. They do it because it feels necessary and it brings them peace.

This quote can be traced back to Fernando Pessoa, a Portuguese poet who wrote under various heteronyms, or alter egos, each with its distinct voice. Pessoa often described his poetry as an extension of his being. It wasn’t about seeking fame or fortune; for him, it was a private act, a way to connect with himself and explore the depths of his mind.

Let’s dive into a real-life example. Picture Emily Dickinson, the reclusive American poet. She wrote nearly 1,800 poems, most of which were discovered only after her death. Dickinson didn’t write for acclaim—she wrote because it was her way of making sense of the world and herself. Her poetry was her sanctuary. She didn’t seek publication or recognition during her lifetime; instead, she wrote to express her innermost thoughts and emotions in solitude.

So how can you apply this wisdom to your own life? First, find something that brings you peace and fulfillment, without worrying about external validation. It could be writing, painting, gardening, or even cooking. Engage in this activity purely for the joy and comfort it brings you, not for the accolades or rewards it might offer. This way, you’ll nourish your soul and find a sense of contentment that transcends external achievements.

Imagine you’ve had a long, stressful day. Work was overwhelming, and you’ve got a million things on your mind. Instead of turning on the TV or scrolling through social media, you decide to pick up that old guitar in the corner of your room. You start strumming, not to compose a hit song or impress anyone, but because playing guitar makes you feel at peace. The melody flows through you, and for a while, you’re lost in the music. That’s your way of being alone, much like how poetry was for Pessoa.

In today’s fast-paced world, we’re often pressured to turn every hobby or passion into a side hustle or a way to gain recognition. But sometimes, it’s okay to do something just for the sheer love of it. Whether it’s journaling, drawing, or simply taking long walks, find that thing that’s yours alone—a space where you can retreat from the world and reconnect with yourself. It doesn’t have to be perfect or impressive; it just has to be authentically you.

So, take a page from Pessoa’s book: discover your ‘way of being alone’ and cherish it. Don’t let ambition or desire dictate your every move. Sometimes, the most fulfilling moments are the ones spent in solitude, doing what you love for no other reason than because it’s a part of who you are.