For all we know Of what the blessed do above Is, that they sing, and that they love.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Waller contrasts earthly knowledge of the blessed with their simple, idealized activities of singing and loving.
- In plain terms
- We only know heaven involves singing and loving.
- What can you take from it?
- Simplicity defines the afterlife.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- What defines a blessed life?
- Is simplicity the ultimate goal?
Another view
It reduces complex theological concepts to two simple actions.
More from Edmund Waller
A narrow compass! and yet there Dwelt all that 's good, and all that 's fair; Give me but what this riband bound, Take all the rest the sun goes round.
Permalink to quote #17 Under the tropic is our language spoke, And part of Flanders hath receiv'd our yoke.
Permalink to quote #19 That eagle's fate and mine are one, Which on the shaft that made him die Espied a feather of his own, Wherewith he wont to soar so high.
Permalink to quote #16
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