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About this quote

What does it mean?
Donne asks not to disturb a lock of hair that represents the soul's memory after death.
In plain terms
Please do not touch this hair, which holds my soul's memory after I die.
What can you take from it?
Small objects can hold deep spiritual significance.

Where it applies

  • mourning
  • tomb
  • remembrance

Putting it to work

  • honor small mementos
  • respect the deceased

Questions to consider

  • What objects hold your loved ones memories?
  • How do you honor the dead?

Another view

The claim about hair controlling the body is metaphorical.

More from John Donne

  1. To rage, to lust, to write to, to commend, All is the purlieu of the god of love.

    Permalink to quote #37
  2. A bracelet of bright hair about the bone.

    Permalink to quote #39
  3. I long to talk with some old lover's ghost, Who died before the god of love was born.

    Permalink to quote #36

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