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Quote by Theodore Roethke

Work

Straw for the Fire: From the Notebooks of Theodore Roethke

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Author

Theodore Roethke
Theodore Roethke

Theodore Roethke was an American poet known for his deep emotions and rich imagination. His poetry often explores themes of human emotion and the natural world, enjoying great popularity among readers. more

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“Wisdom increases and is a burden. I know too many people and why I should love them, and the thought that I love them imperfectly is a constant vexation. My half-life continues. The great error of the American condition: to forget that people are humanity--I don't mean in the cliche sense--but are a part of the whole stream of history, and, whatever else they may be in the Here and Now, should be respected and considered, and loved as far as possible and not thought of as students, colleagues, anonymous neighbors.”

“Some people show kindness and humanity when they are losing or when their plans have failed. Their loss or defeat brings out their humanity. But when they are winning, they become rude, cruel, and heartless—showing no compassion, no care, no empathy, and no love.”