Meaning: This quote by Harold Brodkey, an American author known for his introspective and evocative writing, delves into the theme of death and its universal significance. Brodkey's use of vivid imagery and metaphorical language serves to convey a profound understanding of the nature of death and its place within the fabric of existence. Let's delve deeper into the meaning and implications of this thought-provoking quote.

In the first part of the quote, Brodkey likens death to a journey that "goes down to the center of the earth, the great burial church the earth is." Here, he portrays death as a profound and solemn process that extends deep into the heart of the earth, invoking the imagery of a sacred burial ground. This metaphor suggests that death is not merely an individual event, but rather a fundamental aspect of the earth's identity and history. By referring to the earth as a "burial church," Brodkey poignantly connects the idea of death to the concept of sanctity and reverence, highlighting the solemnity and significance of this universal experience.

Moreover, the subsequent phrase "and then to the curved ends of the universe, as light is said to do" further expands the scope of Brodkey's contemplation on death. By likening the journey of death to the trajectory of light reaching the farthest reaches of the universe, he draws a parallel between the expansiveness of death and the boundless expanse of the cosmos. This comparison evokes a sense of cosmic interconnectedness, suggesting that the impact of death reverberates across the universe, much like the far-reaching reach of light. Through this imagery, Brodkey conveys the idea that death transcends individual existence and permeates the fabric of the universe itself.

The quote as a whole reflects Brodkey's contemplation on the pervasive and all-encompassing nature of death. By portraying death as a journey that extends from the depths of the earth to the farthest reaches of the universe, he captures the profound and universal significance of this inevitable human experience. The imagery he employs serves to underscore the solemnity and interconnectedness of death, inviting readers to ponder the profound implications of mortality within the broader context of existence.

Brodkey's exploration of death in this quote resonates with existential and philosophical themes, prompting contemplation on the nature of mortality and its place within the cosmic order. His evocative language and vivid imagery invite readers to consider the profound implications of death as a universal phenomenon that transcends individual lives and extends to the very essence of the earth and the universe.

In conclusion, Harold Brodkey's quote offers a poignant and thought-provoking reflection on the nature of death, employing powerful imagery and metaphorical language to convey the profound and universal significance of this inevitable human experience. Through his contemplation on death's journey from the depths of the earth to the curved ends of the universe, Brodkey invites readers to ponder the interconnectedness and solemnity of mortality within the broader context of existence. His words resonate with a deep and contemplative understanding of the universal nature of death, prompting reflection on the profound implications of this fundamental aspect of human existence.