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About this quote

What does it mean?
The poet resembles a cloud prince who haunts storms and laughs at the archer; exiled on earth, his giant wings prevent him from walking.
In plain terms
Poets are lofty yet grounded, hindered by their gifts.
What can you take from it?
Great talent can be a burden.

Where it applies

  • creative block
  • self‑identity

Putting it to work

  • embrace limitations
  • channel imagination into work

Questions to consider

  • What does the 'giant wings' symbolize?
  • How can one balance vision and practicality?

Another view

Metaphor may be obscure for practical guidance.

More from Charles Baudelaire

  1. Hypocrite lecteur, - mon semblable, - mon frere!

    Permalink to quote #7
  2. La Nature est un temple ou de vivants piliers Laissent parfois sortir de confuses paroles; L'homme y passe a travers des forets de symboles Qui l'observent ave…

    Permalink to quote #9
  3. Homme libre, toujours tu cheriras la mer.

    Permalink to quote #10

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