But such a tide as moving seems asleep, Too full for sound and foam, When that which drew from out the boundless deep Turns again home.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- A tide appears still but is actually powerful, returning the deep's waters home.
- In plain terms
- Even a calm tide holds great strength and purpose.
- What can you take from it?
- Recognize hidden power in seemingly quiet forces.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- When have you underestimated something that turned out to be powerful?
Another view
Metaphor may not translate to all situations where change is abrupt.
More from Alfred (Lord) Tennyson
Sunset and evening star, And one clear call for me! And may there be no moaning of the bar, When I put out to sea.
Permalink to quote #172 Twilight and evening bell, And after that the dark! And may there be no sadness of farewell, When I embark.
Permalink to quote #174 Sir Richard spoke and he laughed, and we roared a hurrah, and so The little Revenge ran on sheer into the heart of the foe, With her hundred fighters on deck, …
Permalink to quote #171
Related quotes
On the ice flow they grip, cut, twist, break open seeds throwing out the white salt, revive volcanic dreams: unable to satisfy their diminuated lust the allego…
John Carder BushJohn Carder Bush quote #2 But death blinds you, unaware of man's fall - An autumn that steals the flower from the flower peddler. Death is testimony of god's love and mercy for man - A …
Ghani KhanGhani Khan quote #4 Down beyond the haven the tide comes with a shout.
William SharpWilliam Sharp quote #4