But life is sweet, though all that makes it sweet Lessen like sound of friends' departing feet; And Death is beautiful as feet of friend Coming with welcome at our journey's end. For me Fate gave, whate'er she else denied, A nature sloping to the southern side; I thank her for it, though when clouds arise Such natures double-darken gloomy skies.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- The poet accepts life and death as natural parts of existence, finding beauty in both separation and reunion with loved ones.
- In plain terms
- Life is sweet even when friends leave, and death is beautiful like a friend arriving at the end.
- What can you take from it?
- Accept both the joys and sorrows of life including death.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- How do you view death?
- Can you find beauty in loss?
Another view
Not everyone finds beauty in death or accepts fate easily.
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