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Quote by Li-Young Lee

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Breaking the Alabaster Jar: Conversations with Li-Young Lee

'Breaking the Alabaster Jar: Conversations with Li-Young Lee' is a compilation of in-depth discussions with the esteemed poet, providing insights into his personal experiences, influences, and the development of his poetic style. more

Author

Li-Young Lee
Li-Young Lee

Li-Young Lee is a celebrated Chinese-American poet whose works are characterized by their emotional depth and introspection. Born in August 19, 1957, Lee's poetry often delves into themes of identity, family, and cultural heritage, blending Chinese and American influences in a lyrical and emotionally resonant style. more

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“My art teacher had said that if you breathed deeply and imagined something, you could be there. You could see it, feel it. During our standoffs with the NKVD, I learned to do that. I clung to my rusted dreams during the times of silence. It was at gunpoint that I fell into every hope and allowed myself to wish from the deepest part of my heart. Komorov thought he was torturing us. But we were escaping into a stillness within ourselves. We found strength there.”

“Do not let yourselves be discouraged or embittered by the smallness of the success you are likely to achieve in trying to make life better. You certainly would not be able, in a single generation, to create an earthly paradise. Who could expect that? But, if you make life ever so little better, you will have done splendidly, and your lives will have been worthwhile. Property may be destroyed and money may lose its purchasing power; but, character, health, knowledge and good judgement will always be in demand under all conditions.”