But he who loveliness within Hath found, all outward loathes, For he who color loves, and skin, Loves but their oldest clothes.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Donne suggests that true love looks inward, while superficial love only cares about physical appearance.
- In plain terms
- Loving someone inside is real; loving only their looks is just loving their old clothes.
- What can you take from it?
- Inner qualities matter more than outward appearance.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Do you value character over appearance?
- What do you wear as your identity?
Another view
It oversimplifies the role of physical attraction in relationships.
More from John Donne
I have done one braver thing Than all the Worthies did; And yet a braver thence doth spring, Which is to keep that hid.
Permalink to quote #7 And dare love that, and say so too, And forget the He and She.
Permalink to quote #9 And swear No where Lives a woman true and fair. If thou find'st one, let me know, Such a pilgrimage were sweet; Yet do not, I would not go, Though at next door…
Permalink to quote #6
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