Meaning: The quote "May we agree that private life is irrelevant? Multiple, mixed, ambiguous at best - out of it we try to fashion the crystal clear, the singular, the absolute, and that is what is relevant; that is what matters." by May Sarton, a distinguished poet and author, encapsulates a profound reflection on the nature of private life and its relevance in the broader context of human existence. The quote delves into the complex interplay between the private and public spheres of life, questioning the significance of the private domain and emphasizing the pursuit of clarity and singularity in our perceptions and experiences.

May Sarton's quote urges us to consider the insignificance of private life in comparison to the pursuit of clarity and singularity. The notion that private life is "irrelevant" challenges conventional assumptions about the primacy of personal experiences and emotions. Sarton suggests that the private sphere is "multiple, mixed, ambiguous at best," implying that it is inherently complex and elusive. This characterization of private life as ambiguous and multi-faceted serves as a contrast to the idealized pursuit of clarity and singularity that she advocates for.

The quote invites contemplation on the human tendency to distill the complexities of private life into a coherent and absolute narrative. Sarton highlights the human endeavor to "fashion the crystal clear, the singular, the absolute" out of the intrinsic ambiguity of private life. This process of distillation and simplification is portrayed as a conscious effort to extract what is considered relevant and significant from the intricate tapestry of personal experiences and emotions.

Sarton's perspective on the relevance of private life can be interpreted in various ways. On one level, it can be seen as a critique of the tendency to prioritize individual concerns over broader societal or universal truths. By questioning the relevance of private life, Sarton prompts us to consider the limitations of our personal perspectives and the potential for distortion and subjectivity in our understanding of the world.

Furthermore, the quote underscores the human inclination to seek clarity and certainty amidst the inherent complexities of life. The contrast between the "multiple, mixed, ambiguous" nature of private life and the idealized pursuit of the "crystal clear, the singular, the absolute" reflects the universal desire for order, coherence, and meaning. Sarton's assertion that "that is what is relevant; that is what matters" suggests an implicit prioritization of the pursuit of clarity and singularity over the intricacies of private life.

In conclusion, May Sarton's quote encapsulates a thought-provoking exploration of the interplay between private life and the pursuit of clarity and singularity. By questioning the relevance of private life and emphasizing the quest for the crystal clear and the singular, Sarton invites us to contemplate the complexities of human experience and the inherent tension between the private and public spheres. The quote encourages a deeper reflection on the nature of personal narratives, the human desire for coherence and meaning, and the enduring quest for clarity amidst the inherent ambiguity of life.