The first day after a death, the new absence Is always the same; we should be careful Of each other, we should be kind While there is still time.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- After a loss, the initial shock is uniform; we should treat each other gently while we can.
- In plain terms
- Grief starts the same for everyone; be kind now.
- What can you take from it?
- Show kindness to others while they are still alive.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Who do you need to be kind to today?
- How do you handle loss?
Another view
It implies kindness is only urgent after death, not before.
More from Philip Larkin
They fuck you up, your mum and dad. They may not mean to, but they do. They fill you with the faults they had And add some extra, just for you.
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