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About this quote

What does it mean?
The poet praises those who reject light and happiness, finding contentment in darkness.
In plain terms
He admires people who are happy in hell.
What can you take from it?
Question the value of rejecting positivity.

Where it applies

  • in oppressive societies
  • when feeling disillusioned

Putting it to work

  • write dark prose
  • explore gothic art

Questions to consider

  • Why would one reject light?
  • Is happiness in hell truly happiness?

Another view

Glorifying darkness can ignore the benefits of light.

More from John Dowland

  1. Flow my tears, fall from your springs, Exil'd for ever: let me mourn Where night's black bird her sad infamy sings, There let me live forlorn.

    Permalink to quote #3
  2. Semper Dowland semper dolens.

    Permalink to quote #5
  3. Come again: sweet love doth now invite, Thy graces that refrain, To do me due delight, To see, to hear, to touch, to kiss, to die, With thee again in sweetest …

    Permalink to quote #2

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