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About this quote

What does it mean?
The speaker expresses disbelief that a spirit filled with such warmth and generosity could cease to exist.
In plain terms
It is hard to think that a generous spirit could end.
What can you take from it?
Generous spirits leave a lasting impact that feels immortal.

Where it applies

  • mourning
  • praise
  • reflection

Putting it to work

  • honor the generous
  • reflect on legacy

Questions to consider

  • Can generosity outlive a person?
  • What makes a spirit feel eternal?

Another view

It assumes spiritual continuity which is not universally accepted.

More from Cecil Day Lewis

  1. Is it birthday weather for you, dear soul? Is it fine your way

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  2. Put out the lights now! Look at the Tree, the rough tree dazzled In oriole plumes of flame, Tinselled with twinkling frost fire, tasselled With stars and moons

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  3. So feast your eyes now On mimic star and moon-cold bauble: Worlds may wither unseen, But the Christmas Tree is a tree of fable, A phoenix in evergreen

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