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About this quote

What does it mean?
The poet suggests that a beloved's expression of displeasure is more beautiful than others' happiness.
In plain terms
Even when she is unhappy, she is more beautiful than others when they are happy.
What can you take from it?
Personal attraction can transform negative expressions into beauty.

Where it applies

  • romantic poetry
  • personal observation
  • art

Putting it to work

  • notice unique traits
  • revalue negative emotions
  • write poetry

Questions to consider

  • How does love change what we see?
  • Is beauty objective or subjective?

Another view

The statement idealizes negativity which may not reflect healthy relationships.

More from Hartley Coleridge

  1. She is not fair to outward view *As many maidens be; Her loveliness I never knew Until she smiled on me: Oh! then I saw her eye was bright, A well of love, a s…

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  2. On this hapless earth There 's small sincerity of mirth, And laughter oft is but an art To drown the outcry of the heart.

    Permalink to quote #2
  3. The soul of man is larger than the sky, Deeper than ocean, or the abysmal dark Of the unfathomed center.

    Permalink to quote #1

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