Meaning: The quote "I am not immortal. Faustus and I are the also-ran." is from the poet Anne Sexton. It captures a sense of mortality and the human condition, drawing upon the literary figure of Faustus to express the idea of not achieving immortality or ultimate success. Anne Sexton was known for her confessional poetry, which often delved into themes of mental illness, personal struggles, and the complexities of human existence.

In this quote, Anne Sexton is likely referencing the legendary character of Faustus, who is most famously depicted in Christopher Marlowe's play "The Tragical History of the Life and Death of Doctor Faustus." Faustus is a scholar who makes a pact with the devil, exchanging his soul for unlimited knowledge and worldly pleasures. The character's story is often interpreted as a cautionary tale about the perils of ambition, the pursuit of knowledge, and the consequences of making deals with dark forces.

By aligning herself with Faustus in the quote, Sexton seems to be acknowledging her own mortality and limitations as a human being. The phrase "also-ran" typically refers to a contestant or competitor who does not win or achieve success. In this context, Sexton may be expressing a sense of resignation or acceptance of her own mortality and the inevitability of being a mere mortal in the grand scheme of existence.

Sexton's choice of words in this quote reflects her introspective and introspective style of writing. Throughout her body of work, she grappled with profound personal and existential questions, often exploring the darker aspects of human experience. Her poetry frequently delved into themes of mental illness, suicide, and the complexities of relationships, offering raw and unflinching insights into the human psyche.

As a confessional poet, Sexton was known for her willingness to confront taboo subjects and delve into the depths of her own inner turmoil. Her work often resonated with readers due to its candid and unapologetic exploration of human emotion and experience. In the quote "I am not immortal. Faustus and I are the also-ran," Sexton encapsulates the universal struggle with mortality and the human desire for transcendence.

Overall, Anne Sexton's quote offers a poignant reflection on the nature of human existence and the inevitability of mortality. Through her evocative language and poignant imagery, she captures the universal experience of grappling with our own limitations and the fleeting nature of life. The quote serves as a reminder of the human condition and the eternal quest for meaning and significance in the face of our mortality.