Meaning: The quote "Waiting for the end, boys, waiting for the end" is from the poem "Autumn" by the English poet William Empson. Empson was a prominent literary critic and poet known for his complex and intellectually challenging writing. The line in question is from the second stanza of the poem, which reads:

"Waiting for the end, boys, waiting for the end.
The time we live is time enough."

This quote encapsulates a sense of anticipation and resignation, as well as an acknowledgment of the passage of time. It suggests a feeling of waiting for something inevitable and the acceptance of the passing of time.

In "Autumn," Empson uses vivid and evocative imagery to explore themes of nature, mortality, and the passage of time. The poem reflects on the changing seasons and the inevitability of life's cycles, drawing parallels between the natural world and human experience. The line "Waiting for the end, boys, waiting for the end" can be interpreted as a reflection on mortality and the transient nature of life.

Empson's poetry often delves into the complexities of human emotion and experience, and his use of language is both thought-provoking and enigmatic. The quote in question exemplifies his ability to capture profound and existential themes in a succinct and impactful manner. The repetition of the phrase "waiting for the end" emphasizes a sense of anticipation and finality, inviting readers to contemplate the broader implications of the passage.

In addition to his work as a poet, Empson was also a highly influential literary critic, best known for his book "Seven Types of Ambiguity," in which he explores the multiple meanings and interpretations of literary texts. His analytical approach to literature informs his poetic style, and his poems often invite readers to engage with layers of meaning and interpretation.

The quote "Waiting for the end, boys, waiting for the end" has the potential to resonate with readers on a personal level, evoking contemplation of mortality, the passage of time, and the inevitability of change. Empson's ability to capture the complexities of human experience in his poetry continues to make his work relevant and thought-provoking for contemporary readers.

In conclusion, the quote "Waiting for the end, boys, waiting for the end" from William Empson's poem "Autumn" encapsulates a sense of anticipation and resignation, inviting readers to contemplate the passage of time and the inevitability of change. Empson's evocative imagery and thought-provoking language make this line a powerful reflection on mortality and the transient nature of life, demonstrating his ability to capture profound and existential themes in his poetry.