All that you’ve loved is all that you own.
Tom Waits
Tom Waits is an American musician, composer, songwriter, and actor. His music, a blend of rock, blues, jazz, and experimental techniques, often focuses on the underbelly of society, delivered in his trademark deep, gravelly voice.
The quote is from the song “Take It With Me” from the album “Mule Variations” released in 1999. The song was written by Waits and his wife, Kathleen Brennan, his frequent collaborator. This evocative song finds Waits singing from the perspective of a person pondering his death, and the song explores the idea of retaining what one treasure most: memories.
In a broader sense, the quote encapsulates the essence of human existence. It suggests that our experiences, the love we give and receive, and the memories we create, are the true wealth we accumulate in life. These intangible treasures are what we truly own and can carry with us, even beyond the physical realm. It’s a poignant reminder to cherish our experiences and the love we share, as they form the fabric of our lives and our legacy. It’s not the material possessions, but the love we’ve given and received that we truly own and can take with us when we depart from this world.
This quote is like a time machine, taking me back to past memories. It’s been with me in good and bad times, reminding me of what’s important in life. Like an old friend, it’s grown with me and my understanding of it deepens each time I revisit it. It marks my past and guides my future. It’s my favourite quote and a part of who I am and want to be.
People you’ve loved never go away for good. They may die or leave you, but if you’ve loved them, they’re still in you. The only things you truly own are the ones you keep in your heart. Look inside your heart.
PS: My favourite cover of the song: “Take it with me” (Martin Halla)