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About this quote

What does it mean?
From endless yearning arise modest deeds like weak fountains that tremble, yet hidden joyful forces appear in these dancing tears.
In plain terms
Great longing produces small, trembling actions, but they reveal hidden joy.
What can you take from it?
Small actions born of longing can uncover inner joy.

Where it applies

  • personal ambition
  • creative inspiration

Putting it to work

  • write down small steps
  • allow emotions to guide action

Questions to consider

  • When do small deeds become meaningful?
  • How can we channel yearning into action?

Another view

The metaphor may romanticize unproductive longing.

More from Rainer Maria Rilke

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