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About this quote

What does it mean?
A rhetorical inquiry addressing a mortal about their sadness and tears.
In plain terms
Who are you and why are you crying?
What can you take from it?
Acknowledge human sorrow through direct questioning.

Where it applies

  • poetry
  • funerals
  • moments of mourning

Putting it to work

  • ask about feelings
  • observe grief

Questions to consider

  • What does sadness reveal about our humanity?
  • How do we respond to others' grief?

Another view

Direct questions may feel intrusive to a grieving person.

More from Anna Letitia Barbauld

  1. OH! hear a pensive captive's prayer, For liberty that sighs ; And never let thine heart be shut Against the prisoner's cries.

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  2. If e'er thy breast with freedom glow'd, And spurn'd a tyrant's chain, Let not thy strong oppressive force A free-born mouse detain.

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  3. The chearful light, the vital air, Are blessings widely given ; Let nature's commoners enjoy The common gifts of heaven.

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