“We move, all of us, in sprung rhythm: for our world – whether we conceive it as broad or as cosy – is, not to out-Manley Fr Hopkins, as ringèd and streakèd and specklèd as the cattle of Laban.”
In this quote, G.M.W. Wemyss uses vivid imagery and poetic language to describe the dynamic and diverse nature of the world we live in. The mention of "sprung rhythm" alludes to the constantly moving and changing nature of our surroundings. By comparing the world to the cattle of Laban, Wemyss emphasizes the unique and varied characteristics that can be found in different aspects of our environment. The use of language reminiscent of the poetry of Gerard Manley Hopkins adds depth and richness to the description of our world. Overall, this quote highlights the beauty and complexity of the world we inhabit.
In today's rapidly changing world, G.M.W. Wemyss' quote reminds us that we are constantly moving in a rhythm, just like the world around us. The reference to Gerard Manley Hopkins adds a poetic touch to the idea that our environment is complex and diverse, much like the cattle of Laban. This quote serves as a modern reminder to embrace the ever-changing nature of our surroundings and to appreciate the beauty in its diversity.
"We move, all of us, in sprung rhythm: for our world – whether we conceive it as broad or as cosy – is, not to out-Manley Fr Hopkins, as ringèd and streakèd and specklèd as the cattle of Laban." - G.M.W. Wemyss
In this quote, G.M.W. Wemyss refers to the literary technique of sprung rhythm, popularized by poet Gerard Manley Hopkins. The use of sprung rhythm in this context emphasizes the dynamic and unpredictable nature of the world, likening it to the varied appearance of Laban's cattle.
As we contemplate the quote by G.M.W. Wemyss, we are reminded of the complexity and richness of the world we inhabit. Below are some questions for reflection:
“A bird foraging for food in the swamps and marshes sinks rapidly if it doesn't move. It has to keep pulling its feet out of the mire to move on, regardless of whether it has caught something or not. And the same applies to us and to our love. We have to move on, we can't stay where we are, because we'll sink.”
“Isn't this the truth of any good mother? That in all of our lives. We worry only about those we brought into this world, regardless of whether they loved us back or treated us fairly or understood our shortcomings.”
“In foreign affairs we must make up our minds that, whether we wish it or not, we are a great people and must play a great part in the world. It is not open to us to choose whether we will play that great part or not. We have to play it. All we can decide is whether we shall play it well or ill.”
“Just think! This whole world of ours is only a speck of mildew sprung up on a tiny planet, yet we think we can have something great - thoughts,, actions! They are all but grains of sand”
“Our life's dance is not painted for us in footsteps on the floor. It's not laid out so we know where to place our next step. We simply had to judge which steps best fit the rhythms that we hear." ”