In Madeleine L'Engle's beloved novel "A Wrinkle in Time," we encounter a beautifully crafted metaphor that captures the essence of life:
“Life, with its rules, its obligations, and its freedoms, is like a sonnet: You're given the form, but you have to write the sonnet yourself.”
This profound comparison between life and poetry offers a unique perspective on the balance between structure and creativity in our existence.
Unpacking the Quote
Let's break down the key elements:
"Life, with its rules, its obligations, and its freedoms" - Acknowledges the various aspects of life that both constrain and liberate us
"Like a sonnet" - Compares life to a specific poetic form known for its strict structure
"You're given the form" - Recognizes the predetermined aspects of life
"You have to write the sonnet yourself" - Emphasizes personal responsibility and creativity
The Structure of Life
L'Engle's quote cleverly uses the sonnet as a metaphor for life's inherent structure. Like a sonnet's 14 lines and specific rhyme scheme, life comes with certain rules and obligations that we must work within.
Freedom Within Constraints
Just as a poet finds creative expression within the confines of a sonnet's form, the quote suggests that we find our freedom and self-expression within life's given parameters. It's a reminder that constraints can often foster creativity rather than hinder it.
Personal Responsibility
The metaphor emphasizes that while we're given a "form" to work with, the content - the actual living of life - is our responsibility. We are the authors of our own experiences, working within the structure we're given.
The Art of Living
By comparing life to writing a sonnet, L'Engle elevates the act of living to an art form. It suggests that a well-lived life, like a well-crafted sonnet, requires skill, creativity, and personal investment.
Practical Applications
To apply this wisdom:
Recognize the "rules" and "obligations" in your life, but don't let them limit your creativity
Look for ways to express your individuality within your given circumstances
Take responsibility for "writing" your own life story
Approach challenges as opportunities for creative problem-solving
Conclusion
L'Engle's quote reminds us that while we don't have control over every aspect of our lives, we have the power to shape our experiences within the given framework. Life, like a sonnet, is a beautiful interplay of structure and creativity, constraint and freedom.