Death makes angels of us all and gives us wings where we had shoulders smooth as ravens claws.
What's the meaning of this quote?
Quote Meaning: The quote explores the profound transformation that death brings to human existence, using vivid imagery and metaphorical language to convey its impact. At its core, "Death makes angels of us all and gives us wings where we had shoulders smooth as ravens' claws" delves into the idea of mortality as a transformative force, turning ordinary beings into something ethereal and granting capabilities beyond earthly constraints.
Firstly, the phrase "Death makes angels of us all" suggests that death has a universal effect, regardless of one's earthly status or virtues. In death, every individual transcends the limitations of their physical existence, metaphorically becoming an angel. Angels, often depicted as celestial beings in various cultures and religions, symbolize purity, transcendence, and a departure from the mundane. This transformation implies that death is a gateway to a higher state, where the soul is liberated from earthly concerns and attains a spiritual essence akin to an angelic being.
Moreover, the imagery of "gives us wings where we had shoulders smooth as ravens' claws" further emphasizes this transformation. Ravens' claws are known for their sharpness and grip, contrasting sharply with the imagery of wings—a symbol of freedom, flight, and spiritual ascension. The comparison highlights how death not only liberates the soul but also imbues it with newfound abilities and qualities that were unimaginable in life. It suggests a metamorphosis from the mundane and earthly (smooth shoulders) to the sublime and transcendent (wings).
In essence, this quote prompts reflection on the dual nature of death: it marks the end of physical life but also signifies a profound spiritual evolution. It challenges the conventional perception of death as mere cessation by portraying it as a transformative experience that elevates individuals beyond their mortal existence. By using evocative language and powerful imagery, the quote invites us to contemplate the mysteries of mortality and the potential for spiritual growth that lies beyond it. It captures the idea that death, while solemn and inevitable, holds within it the promise of transcendent liberation and metamorphosis into something greater than our earthly selves.
Who said the quote?
The quote "Death makes angels of us all and gives us wings where we had shoulders smooth as ravens claws." is often attributed to Jim Morrison (Quotes). Jim Morrison was the charismatic lead singer of The Doors, an influential rock band of the 1960s.
Chief Editor
Tal Gur is an author, founder, and impact-driven entrepreneur at heart. After trading his daily grind for a life of his own daring design, he spent a decade pursuing 100 major life goals around the globe. His journey and most recent book, The Art of Fully Living, has led him to found Elevate Society.