It means the poet mother and her cousins grown up so fast in contrast the vast sea has not changed at all

Meaning of “washed their terribly transient feet”

The line “washed their terribly transient feet” is a metaphorical expression used by the poet Dylan Thomas in his poem “And Death Shall Have No Dominion”. The phrase refers to the act of washing the feet of someone who is about to die, which was a common practice in ancient times. The phrase has a deeper meaning that goes beyond the literal act of washing feet.

Terribly Transient Feet

The phrase “terribly transient feet” refers to the impermanence of human life. The poet is suggesting that life is fleeting and transitory, like feet that are constantly on the move, always taking us to new places and experiences. The use of the word “terribly” suggests that the poet sees this impermanence as a source of sadness and tragedy.

Washing of Feet

The act of washing someone’s feet is a symbolic gesture of humility and respect. It was a common practice in ancient times, particularly in the Middle East, where people would wash the feet of guests as a sign of hospitality. In a religious context, the act of washing feet represents the washing away of sins and the purification of the soul.

Symbolic Meaning

In the context of Dylan Thomas’s poem, the act of washing feet takes on a symbolic meaning. The poet is suggesting that even in the face of death, there is still a need for humility and respect. The act of washing feet represents an acknowledgement of the impermanence of life and a recognition of the dignity of the human spirit.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the line “washed their terribly transient feet” is a metaphorical expression used by the poet Dylan Thomas to represent the impermanence of human life and the need for humility and respect even in the face of death. The phrase has a deep symbolic meaning that goes beyond the literal act of washing feet.