"One cannot collect all the beautiful shells on the beach"

In this quote, poet Anne Spencer is conveying the concept that it is impossible to possess or obtain all of the beautiful things in life. The metaphor of gathering shells on the beach represents the desire to collect and hold onto beauty. However, using the word "can not" recommends that this is a useless pursuit. Spencer might be recommending that real appeal can not be included or owned, but rather it is something to be valued and admired in the moment. This quote functions as a tip to not become taken in with product possessions, however to instead find delight in the simple pleasures of life.