Meaning: The quote "I have been in Sorrow's kitchen and licked out all the pots. Then I have stood on the peaky mountain wrapped in rainbows, with a harp and sword in my hands" is a powerful and evocative statement by Zora Neale Hurston, an influential African American writer, anthropologist, and folklorist. This quote encapsulates the resilience and strength of the human spirit in the face of adversity, as well as the profound duality of human experience.

Zora Neale Hurston is best known for her literary contributions to the Harlem Renaissance, a cultural, social, and artistic explosion that took place in Harlem, New York, during the 1920s. Her work often explored the complexities of African American life and culture, and her writing was characterized by its rich language, vivid imagery, and deep understanding of the human condition.

In the context of the quote, "Sorrow's kitchen" symbolizes the hardships and challenges that one encounters in life. The imagery of "licked out all the pots" suggests that the speaker has experienced and endured the full extent of sorrow and adversity. This metaphorical portrayal of sorrow as a kitchen and the act of licking out all the pots conveys the idea of confronting and overcoming suffering in its entirety.

The subsequent image of standing "on the peaky mountain wrapped in rainbows" represents a stark contrast to the previous depiction of sorrow. The mountain, typically a symbol of strength and endurance, and the rainbows, often associated with hope and promise, evoke a sense of triumph and resilience. The juxtaposition of these contrasting experiences illustrates the depth and complexity of the human journey.

Furthermore, the mention of having "a harp and sword in my hands" adds another layer of symbolism to the quote. The harp, a musical instrument often associated with beauty and harmony, juxtaposed with the sword, a weapon symbolizing strength and protection, reflects the multifaceted nature of the speaker's experiences. It suggests an individual who has embraced both the gentleness of art and music, as well as the courage and determination required to confront and overcome challenges.

Hurston's use of vivid and evocative imagery in this quote conveys a profound message about the human capacity for resilience and the ability to find strength and beauty in the face of adversity. It speaks to the universal human experience of navigating through moments of sorrow and hardship, and ultimately finding moments of triumph and joy.

In conclusion, Zora Neale Hurston's quote "I have been in Sorrow's kitchen and licked out all the pots. Then I have stood on the peaky mountain wrapped in rainbows, with a harp and sword in my hands" encapsulates the resilience, strength, and duality of the human experience. Through powerful imagery and symbolism, Hurston conveys the profound journey of confronting and overcoming adversity, ultimately finding moments of triumph and beauty. This quote serves as a timeless reminder of the human spirit's capacity to endure, persevere, and find moments of joy and strength amidst life's challenges.