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About this quote

What does it mean?
A surreal image of a man among thieves, dressed in ideas and wearing a mock hat.
In plain terms
A thief‑like man is covered in ideas and a mocking hat.
What can you take from it?
Ideas can be as burdensome as physical attire.

Where it applies

  • creative writing
  • visual art

Putting it to work

  • use metaphor in poetry
  • explore absurdist themes

Questions to consider

  • What does the ‘round jeer’ symbolize?
  • How do ideas become clothing?

Another view

Obscure imagery may alienate readers.

More from E. E. Cummings

  1. There are certain things in which one is unable to believe for the simple reason that he never ceases to feel them. Things of this sort- things which are alway…

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  2. wholly to be a fool while Spring is in the world my blood approves, and kisses are a better fate than wisdom

    Permalink to quote #13
  3. Your poems are rather hard to understand, whereas your paintings are so easy. Easy? Of course-you paint flowers and girls and sunsets; things that everybody un…

    Permalink to quote #10

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