Now kiss, and think that there are really those, My own high-bosom'd beauty, who increase Vain gold, vain lore, and yet might choose our way! Through many years they toil; then on a day They die not, - for their life was death, - but cease; And round their narrow lips the mould falls close.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Chasing material wealth and knowledge is vain, as it leads only to death and oblivion.
- In plain terms
- Chasing money and knowledge is useless because you will die anyway.
- What can you take from it?
- Do not make material gain your only goal.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- What is a better goal?
- What is not vain?
Another view
It dismisses the potential value of knowledge and wealth if used for others.
More from Dante Gabriel Rossetti
Eat thou and drink; to-morrow thou shalt die. Surely the earth, that's wise being very old, Needs not our help. Then loose me, love, and hold Thy sultry hair u…
Permalink to quote #15 Watch thou and fear; to-morrow thou shalt die.
Permalink to quote #17 When all desire at last and all regret Go hand in hand to death, and all is vain, What shall assuage the unforgotten pain And teach the unforgetful to forget?
Permalink to quote #14
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