Meaning: The quote "Now all my teachers are dead except silence" is attributed to the American poet W. S. Merwin. This poignant statement reflects the idea that, as we progress through life, we inevitably lose the guidance and wisdom of our teachers, leaving us with only the quiet solitude of silence. It suggests a profound sense of loss and the passage of time, as well as the enduring impact of the lessons and knowledge imparted by those who have shaped our lives.

W.S. Merwin was a highly regarded American poet, known for his profound and contemplative verse. Throughout his career, he explored themes of nature, spirituality, and the human experience, often using spare and meditative language to convey deep emotional and philosophical insights. Merwin's work has been celebrated for its lyrical beauty and its ability to evoke a sense of wonder and introspection in readers.

In the context of the quote, "Now all my teachers are dead except silence," Merwin may be reflecting on the inevitable passing of time and the loss of influential figures in his life. The phrase "except silence" suggests that, in the absence of living teachers, there remains a profound and meaningful connection to be found in the quiet contemplation and introspection that silence can offer. It implies that, even in the absence of direct guidance, there is still wisdom and understanding to be found in the stillness and solitude of silence.

This quote also speaks to the universal experience of loss and the passage of time. As we move through life, we inevitably encounter the passing of those who have shaped and influenced us. The absence of these figures can leave us feeling adrift and searching for meaning. However, the idea of "silence" as a teacher suggests that there is value in reflecting on the lessons and wisdom we have gained from those who have come before us, even after they are no longer physically present in our lives.

In a broader sense, the quote can be interpreted as a meditation on the enduring impact of teachers and mentors, even after they are gone. It acknowledges the profound influence that these individuals have had on shaping our understanding of the world and ourselves. The notion of "silence" as the remaining teacher highlights the idea that there is still much to be learned and understood in the absence of external guidance, and that introspection and reflection can be powerful sources of wisdom and insight.

Overall, W.S. Merwin's quote "Now all my teachers are dead except silence" encapsulates a profound sense of loss, the enduring impact of mentors and teachers, and the potential for wisdom and understanding to be found in the quiet moments of solitude and introspection. It reflects the universal experience of grappling with the passage of time and the inevitable loss of those who have shaped our lives, while also pointing to the enduring value of the lessons and wisdom they have imparted.