The maid who modestly conceals Her beauties, while she hides, reveals; Give but a glimpse, and fancy draws Whate'er the Grecian Venus was.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Modesty and hiding beauty can make it more alluring because imagination fills in the gaps.
- In plain terms
- Hiding your beauty makes people imagine you are even more beautiful.
- What can you take from it?
- Modesty increases allure by leaving things to the imagination.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Does mystery make things more attractive?
- How much should be revealed?
Another view
It assumes that concealment always increases desire.
More from Edward Moore
Can't I another's face commend, And to her virtues be a friend, But instantly your forehead lowers, As if her merit lessen'd yours?
Permalink to quote #3 But from the hoop's bewitching round, Her very shoe has power to wound.
Permalink to quote #5 'T is now the summer of your youth. Time has not cropt the roses from your cheek, though sorrow long has washed them.
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