If I had thought thou couldst have died, I might not weep for thee; But I forgot, when by thy side, That thou couldst mortal be.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- The speaker regrets not realizing the loved one was mortal before they died, which caused unexpected grief.
- In plain terms
- I did not think you could die, so I was not prepared to grieve.
- What can you take from it?
- Acknowledging mortality beforehand can prepare us for loss.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- How does knowing someone is mortal change how you love them?
- What surprises you about grief?
Another view
The quote assumes a specific personal relationship that may not apply universally.
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