We must have the stubbornness to accept our gladness in the ruthless furnace of this world.
Jack GilbertI had lived all of my youthful dreams, but I couldn't think of many adult ones. I finally realized that we don't have many dreams for adults because, historically, people have always died much younger than they do today.
Jack GilbertBeing alive is so extraordinary I donโt know why people limit it to riches, pride, securityโall of those things life is built on. People miss so much because they want money and comfort and pride, a house and a job to pay for the house. And they have to get a car. You canโt see anything from a car. Itโs moving too fast. People take vacations. Thatโs their rewardโthe vacation. Why not the life?
Jack GilbertHow astonishing it is that language can almost mean, and frightening that it does not quite.
Jack GilbertDuende I can't remember her name. It's not as though I've been in bed with that many women. The truth is I can't even remember her face. I kind of know how strong her thighs were, and her beauty. But what I won't forget is the way she tore open the barbecued chicken with her hands, and wiped the grease on her breasts.
Jack Gilbert