His lips drink water but his heart drinks wine
What's the meaning of this quote?
Quote Meaning: The quote "His lips drink water but his heart drinks wine" encapsulates a profound truth about human nature and the complexity of our desires and inner experiences. At its core, this quote speaks to the duality of our existence, the contrast between the tangible, physical actions we perform and the deeper, more elusive yearnings of our hearts and souls.
On the surface, it may seem like a simple observation about someone's drinking habits—someone who may sip water outwardly while harboring a deeper thirst for something richer, more intoxicating, like wine. However, when we delve deeper into its meaning, the quote reveals layers of symbolism and metaphor that speak to the intricacies of human emotions and desires.
Water, in its purest form, is essential for sustaining life. It quenches thirst, hydrates the body, and symbolizes purity and clarity. When someone's lips drink water, it signifies a basic, essential need being fulfilled—a physical act of nourishment and sustenance. Yet, the heart, in its metaphorical sense, represents the seat of emotions, desires, and deeper longings that transcend mere physical sustenance.
In contrast to water, wine holds deeper connotations. It is associated with celebration, indulgence, and the finer pleasures of life. Wine is not merely a drink but a symbol of richness, complexity, and intoxicating allure. When the quote suggests that the heart drinks wine, it speaks to the longing for something more profound than mere sustenance—a craving for richness, depth, and emotional fulfillment that transcends the mundane.
The juxtaposition of water and wine in the quote reflects the tension between the mundane and the sublime, the basic and the profound, the visible and the hidden aspects of human existence. It suggests that while we may attend to our basic physical needs outwardly—symbolized by drinking water—our hearts yearn for something deeper, something that speaks to the essence of our being and our search for meaning and fulfillment.
Furthermore, the quote can be interpreted as a commentary on the dichotomy between appearances and reality. Outwardly, we may present ourselves in a certain way, conforming to societal norms and expectations—symbolized by drinking water. Yet, beneath the surface, lies a deeper truth, a more authentic self that craves authenticity, passion, and genuine connection—symbolized by the heart's desire for wine.
In essence, "His lips drink water but his heart drinks wine" encapsulates the human condition—the eternal struggle between the outward and the inward, the visible and the invisible, the mundane and the transcendent. It invites us to reflect on our own lives, to explore the depths of our desires, and to seek fulfillment not just in the material realm but in the richness of our emotions, aspirations, and connections with others.
Who said the quote?
The quote “His lips drink water but his heart drinks wine” is often attributed to E. E. cummings (Quotes). E. E. cummings is known for his unconventional and experimental poetry, often characterized by its unique use of typography and grammar.
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.
