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About this quote

What does it mean?
Soon we will plunge into cold darkness; farewell, bright clarity of our too‑short lives!
In plain terms
We face imminent darkness, leaving behind brief bright moments.
What can you take from it?
Value fleeting clarity.

Where it applies

  • grief
  • existential reflection

Putting it to work

  • cherish present moments
  • write about loss

Questions to consider

  • What does darkness symbolize?
  • How can we preserve clarity?

Another view

The phrasing is dramatic and may not inspire actionable steps.

More from Charles Baudelaire

  1. La, tout n'est qu'ordre et beaute, Luxe, calme et volupte.

    Permalink to quote #11
  2. Je suis un cimetiere abhorre de la lune.

    Permalink to quote #13
  3. Homme libre, toujours tu cheriras la mer.

    Permalink to quote #10

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