Meaning: The quote "In Boston serpents whistle at the cold" is a line from the poem "The Quaker Graveyard in Nantucket" by Robert Lowell, a renowned American poet. The poem was published in 1946 and is considered one of Lowell's most significant works. The quote captures the essence of the harsh New England climate, as well as the sense of unease and foreboding that pervades the poem.

Lowell was a leading figure in the confessional poetry movement, known for his introspective and deeply personal verse. "The Quaker Graveyard in Nantucket" is a prime example of his confessional style, as the poem delves into themes of mortality, loss, and the struggle to find meaning in a chaotic world.

The line "In Boston serpents whistle at the cold" is rich with symbolism and metaphor. At first glance, it may seem nonsensical, but upon closer examination, it reveals a profound sense of disquiet and dislocation. The image of serpents whistling at the cold conveys a sense of danger and malevolence lurking beneath the surface of the seemingly serene New England landscape. The use of serpents as a symbol evokes biblical connotations of temptation and betrayal, adding a layer of complexity to the quote.

The choice of Boston as the setting further adds to the significance of the line. Boston is a city steeped in history and tradition, but it is also a place of harsh winters and unforgiving weather. By juxtaposing the image of serpents with the cold of Boston, Lowell creates a vivid and unsettling portrait of a place where danger and beauty coexist in a delicate balance.

Furthermore, the quote can be interpreted as a commentary on the human condition. Just as serpents whistle at the cold in Boston, humans are often forced to confront the harsh realities of life, whether it be physical, emotional, or spiritual. The line speaks to the resilience and adaptability of the human spirit in the face of adversity, as well as the capacity for darkness to manifest in unexpected ways.

Overall, "In Boston serpents whistle at the cold" is a thought-provoking and enigmatic line that encapsulates the complex themes and imagery found in Lowell's poetry. It serves as a poignant reminder of the power of language to evoke emotion and provoke contemplation. Through his masterful use of language and symbolism, Lowell invites readers to explore the depths of human experience and confront the unsettling truths that lie beneath the surface of everyday life.

In conclusion, Robert Lowell's quote "In Boston serpents whistle at the cold" is a powerful and evocative line from his poem "The Quaker Graveyard in Nantucket." It captures the essence of the harsh New England climate, as well as the sense of unease and foreboding that pervades the poem. Through its rich symbolism and metaphor, the quote invites readers to contemplate the complexities of human experience and the delicate balance between beauty and danger. Lowell's masterful use of language and imagery in this line exemplifies his enduring influence on American poetry and his ability to evoke emotion and introspection in his readers.