Meaning: The quote "Still falls the rain - dark as the world of man, black as our loss - blind as the nineteen hundred and forty nails upon the Cross" is a powerful and evocative expression of the enduring suffering and turmoil experienced by humanity. It is a reflection on the relentless nature of hardship and adversity, drawing parallels between the darkness of the world and the profound sense of loss and pain that people endure.

The quote is from the poem "Still Falls the Rain" by Edith Sitwell, a prominent English poet known for her striking and innovative works. Sitwell was part of the modernist literary movement and was recognized for her distinctive style, which often incorporated themes of war, suffering, and the human condition. "Still Falls the Rain" was written during World War II, a period of immense upheaval and devastation, and it captures the profound impact of the conflict on society and individuals.

The imagery in the quote is rich and laden with symbolism. The rain, which falls "dark as the world of man," is depicted as a somber and all-encompassing force, mirroring the pervasive struggles and hardships faced by humanity. The use of the color black further emphasizes the depths of despair and sorrow, suggesting a profound sense of loss that envelops the world. The comparison of the rain to the "nineteen hundred and forty nails upon the Cross" evokes religious imagery, invoking the crucifixion of Jesus Christ and the suffering it represents. This juxtaposition of the natural world with the symbolism of the Cross serves to underscore the universal nature of suffering and the enduring impact of hardship on humanity.

Sitwell's choice of language and imagery in this quote serves to evoke a sense of collective anguish and despair, capturing the weight of human suffering in the face of adversity. The use of vivid and evocative language allows the reader to viscerally experience the depth of pain and hardship described in the poem.

In addition to its thematic significance, the quote also exemplifies Sitwell's skillful use of rhythm and sound in her poetry. The repetition of the "s" sound in "Still falls the rain" creates a sense of relentless and unyielding descent, mirroring the persistent nature of suffering. The use of alliteration and consonance throughout the quote further contributes to its musicality and poetic impact, enhancing the emotional resonance of the words.

Overall, the quote "Still falls the rain - dark as the world of man, black as our loss - blind as the nineteen hundred and forty nails upon the Cross" encapsulates the enduring theme of human suffering and the profound impact of hardship on the collective human experience. Through evocative imagery and skillful language, Edith Sitwell crafts a poignant and powerful expression of the universal struggle against adversity, resonating with readers and listeners alike.