Meaning: "The deepest feeling always shows itself in silence; not in silence, but restraint." This quote by Marianne Moore, a renowned poet, encapsulates the complexity of human emotions and the art of self-restraint. It suggests that the most profound emotions are often expressed not through overt displays of emotion, but through the restraint and control of one's feelings. This idea of emotional depth and restraint is a recurring theme in Moore's poetry and reflects her keen understanding of human nature and the nuances of expression.

Marianne Moore was an American modernist poet known for her precise language, keen observation, and innovative approach to form and structure. Throughout her body of work, Moore often explored the depths of human emotions and the ways in which they manifest themselves. Her poetry delves into the complexities of human experience, often revealing the depth of feeling through subtle and restrained expressions.

In the context of the quote, "The deepest feeling always shows itself in silence," Moore suggests that profound emotions are not always overtly expressed, but rather revealed through a sense of quiet introspection and contemplation. This notion aligns with Moore's poetic style, which often employs precise and measured language to convey profound emotional truths. By emphasizing the power of silence as a mode of expression, Moore invites readers to consider the depth and complexity of human emotions beyond the realm of verbal or visible communication.

The latter part of the quote, "not in silence, but restraint," further elucidates Moore's perspective on the expression of deep feelings. Here, she distinguishes between mere silence and the deliberate exercise of restraint. This distinction underscores the idea that the true depth of feeling is not merely found in the absence of sound or speech, but in the conscious choice to withhold or temper one's emotions. In doing so, Moore highlights the art of self-restraint as a powerful means of conveying profound emotions, emphasizing the inherent strength and complexity of such expression.

Moore's emphasis on restraint as a vehicle for emotional expression reflects her belief in the power of subtlety and nuance in communication. Through her poetry, she often eschewed overt sentimentality in favor of precise and controlled language, allowing the depth of feeling to emerge through carefully crafted verses. In this way, Moore's work exemplifies the idea that profound emotions can be conveyed with great impact through the artful exercise of restraint.

The quote also invites contemplation on the nature of silence and restraint as modes of communication. In a world filled with noise and constant expression, the notion that the deepest feelings are often found in moments of quiet restraint challenges prevailing notions of emotional display. It prompts readers to consider the depth and authenticity of emotions that are expressed not through grand gestures or words, but through the subtle language of restraint.

In conclusion, Marianne Moore's quote encapsulates her nuanced understanding of human emotions and the art of expression. Through her emphasis on the power of silence and restraint in conveying deep feelings, she challenges conventional modes of emotional expression and invites readers to consider the profound impact of subtle and controlled communication. Moore's own poetry exemplifies these principles, as she masterfully crafts verses that reveal the depth of human emotions through the artful exercise of restraint. This quote serves as a reminder of the enduring power of quiet introspection and controlled expression in conveying the most profound aspects of the human experience.