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About this quote

What does it mean?
A ghostly figure represents someone neglected early, begging for care and nurturing again.
In plain terms
An unseen spirit cries out for the care it was denied.
What can you take from it?
Neglect creates lingering needs that demand attention.

Where it applies

  • childhood trauma
  • grief counseling
  • past relationships

Putting it to work

  • address past hurts
  • recognize dependency
  • provide closure

Questions to consider

  • What needs were denied early in life?
  • How does neglect echo into the present?

Another view

The metaphor relies heavily on supernatural imagery.

More from Stevie Smith

  1. Who is this that comes in grandeur, coming from the blazing East? This is he we had not thought of, this is he the airy Christ.

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  2. The boat that took my love away He sent again to me To tell me that he would not sleep Alone beneath the sea.

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  3. All the same, there is a difficulty. I should like him to be happy in heaven here, But he cannot come by wishing. Only by being already at home here.

    Permalink to quote #9

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