Drink to me only with thine eyes, And I will pledge with mine; Or leave a kiss but in the cup And I'll not look for wine. The thirst that from the soul doth rise Doth ask a drink divine; But might I of Jove's nectar sup, I would not change for thine. I sent thee late a rosy wreath, Not so much honoring thee As giving it a hope that there It could not withered be. But thou thereon didst only breathe, And sent'st it back to me; Since when it grows and smells, I swear, Not of itself, but thee.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- True love values a partner's affection and connection far more than material gifts.
- In plain terms
- I prefer your eyes and a kiss to wine or fancy gifts.
- What can you take from it?
- Authentic connection surpasses material value.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- What shows love better than words or gifts?
- How do you express affection?
Another view
It may downplay the role of tangible gestures in relationships.
More from Ben Jonson
Follow a shadow, it still flies you; Seem to fly it, it will pursue: So court a mistress, she denies you; Let her alone, she will court you.
Permalink to quote #28 Not to know vice at all, and keep true state, Is virtue, and not fate: Next to that virtue is to know vice well, And her black spite expel.
Permalink to quote #30 Come my Celia, let us prove, While we can, the sports of love; Time will not be ours forever, He at length our good will sever. Spend not then his gifts in vai…
Permalink to quote #27
Related quotes
You don't need words - just one kiss, then another.
Kate BushKate Bush quote #162 Over the mountains, And over the waves, Over the fountains, And under the graves; Over the floods that are deepest, Which do Neptune obey; Over the rocks that …
Thomas PercyThomas Percy quote #1 One love, one heart, let's get together and feel alright.
Bob MarleyBob Marley quote #1