We spent them not in toys, in lusts, or wine, But search of deep philosophy, Wit, eloquence, and poetry; Arts which I lov'd, for they, my friend, were thine.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- The speaker values deep philosophy and arts over pleasure, honoring a friend who shared these pursuits.
- In plain terms
- We used time for deep philosophy and art instead of fun, because you loved those things.
- What can you take from it?
- Intellectual and artistic pursuits are valued higher than sensory pleasures.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- What do you value over pleasure?
- How does friendship shape your values?
Another view
It may undervalue the role of leisure and pleasure in a balanced life.
More from Abraham Cowley
His time is forever, everywhere his place.
Permalink to quote #5 His faith, perhaps, in some nice tenets might Be wrong; his life, I 'm sure, was in the right.
Permalink to quote #7 What shall I do to be forever known, And make the age to come my own?
Permalink to quote #4
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