Mary Oliver was an American poet who had a remarkable ability to infuse her observations of nature and everyday life with profound wisdom. Her poems often explored themes of love, loss, and the interconnectedness of all living things. Here are some of the best and most popular quotes from Mary Oliver that will inspire and resonate with readers.
– “Tell me, what is it you plan to do with your one wild and precious life?”
Mary Oliver’s famous question challenges us to contemplate the purpose and meaning of our existence and encourages us to make the most of every moment.
– “Instructions for living a life: Pay attention. Be astonished. Tell about it.”
In these simple but profound instructions, Oliver reminds us to be present, open our eyes to the wonders around us, and share our experiences with others.
– “You do not have to be good. You only have to let the soft animal of your body love what it loves.”
This quote encourages self-acceptance and reminds us to honor our desires and passions without judgment or shame.
– “Listen–are you breathing just a little, and calling it a life?”
Oliver’s thought-provoking question calls us to examine whether we are truly living fully or merely going through the motions.
– “To pay attention, this is our endless and proper work.”
This quote emphasizes the importance of staying attentive and engaged with the world around us, as it is an ongoing and essential task.
– “Keep some room in your heart for the unimaginable.”
Oliver invites us to remain open to the unknown possibilities and surprises that life may bring, reminding us that the heart has infinite capacity.
– “When it’s over, I want to say, all my life I was a bride married to amazement.”
This poetic phrase encourages us to live our lives with a sense of wonder and awe, appreciating the extraordinary in the ordinary.
– “Someone I loved once gave me a box full of darkness. It took me years to understand that this, too, was a gift.”
Oliver’s poignant words remind us that even the painful experiences we encounter can hold valuable lessons and opportunities for growth.
– “In their dreams they sleep with the moon.”
This ethereal imagery invites us to connect with nature and embrace the sense of peace and harmony that it can bring.
– “I want to be improbable and beautiful and afraid of nothing, as though I had wings.”
Oliver’s desire for fearlessness and willingness to embrace the extraordinary encourages us to let go of limitations and soar towards our dreams.
As you can see, Mary Oliver’s words resonate deeply, inspiring us to live fully, find beauty in the simplicity of life, and cherish the natural world. So, let these quotes of wisdom guide you towards a more fulfilling and meaningful existence.