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"ولحمك نفسه سيكون قصيدة عظيمة"

Walt Whitman
Walt Whitman Poet
Translations
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Quote meaning
The core idea of this quote is that our lives, including our physical existence, should be lived in such a way that they become a work of art. Essentially, it’s a call to live with intention, creativity, and passion. It suggests that everything we do, right down to the way we move and interact with the world, can be imbued with meaning and beauty—like a poem.

This quote comes from Walt Whitman, a 19th-century American poet known for his work "Leaves of Grass." Whitman celebrated individuality and the human spirit, and this particular line reflects his belief that every person has the potential to live a life as expressive and profound as a piece of poetry. He wanted people to embrace their humanity fully and to live authentically and unapologetically.

Think about a dancer—someone who throws themselves into their art with such fervor that even an observer can feel the emotion and energy radiating from each movement. Take Misty Copeland, for instance, the first African American female principal dancer with the prestigious American Ballet Theatre. Her journey wasn’t just about the technical mastery of ballet; it was about overcoming personal and societal challenges and expressing her story through her dance. When Misty dances, her very flesh tells a story, making her existence a "great poem" in motion. Her body becomes the medium for expressing deep, often unspeakable emotions and experiences.

To apply this wisdom in your own life, consider what it means to live expressively and deeply. It doesn’t mean you have to become an artist or a dancer unless that’s your passion. It means paying attention to how you live each day. Are you going through the motions, or are you engaging fully with your experiences? Are you expressing your true self in your interactions with others? Think about the small choices you make every day. Are you choosing things that reflect your values and passions, or are you letting life happen to you?

Imagine you're at a coffee shop (which is fitting, given our setting here). You see a barista who not only makes coffee but does it with flair. She remembers customers' names, knows their usual orders, and adds a little latte art with each cup she serves. She’s not just making coffee; she’s creating a little moment of joy and connection with every interaction. Her job, her daily routine, becomes a poem through the care and creativity she brings to it.

In your own life, you can start small. Maybe it’s the way you greet people, the way you tackle your work, or the hobbies you pursue. Bring intention and passion into those actions. Let your personality shine through. Life isn’t about perfection; it’s about presence and authenticity. When you live like this, your very flesh—your being—becomes a great poem. You create beauty and meaning through the way you live, leaving a lasting impact on those around you.
Related tags
Art Body Flesh Humanity Literature Physicality Poetry Soul Transcendence Whitman
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