I am the only being whose doom No tongue would ask no eye would mourn I never caused a thought of gloom A smile of joy since I was born In secret pleasure - secret tears This changeful life has slipped away As friendless after eighteen years As lone as on my natal day
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- The speaker reflects on a lonely life filled with hidden emotions and a lack of connection with others.
- In plain terms
- I lived alone for eighteen years, keeping my joys and sorrows secret.
- What can you take from it?
- Loneliness can feel like a lifelong companion.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- How do we cope with isolation?
- What makes life meaningful?
Another view
This view assumes loneliness is purely negative without acknowledging solitude's value.
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