"The moment eternal - just that and no more - When ecstasy's utmost we clutch at the core While cheeks burn, arms open, eyes shut, and lips meet!"
- Robert Browning
About this Quote
In this quote, Robert Browning records the strength and enthusiasm of a minute of pure euphoria. He describes it as eternal, stressing its timelessness and significance. Using the word "simply" suggests that this minute is comprehensive and needs no more description or elaboration. The speaker is completely immersed in this minute, with burning cheeks, open arms, closed eyes, and conference lips. This physical and emotional surrender to the moment is depicted as the ultimate experience of ecstasy. Browning's vivid imagery and succinct language convey the intensity and power of this moment, leaving the reader with a sense of wonder and marvel.
"When the missionaries came to Africa they had the Bible and we had the land. They said "Let us pray." We closed our eyes. When we opened them we had the Bible and they had the land"