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About this quote

What does it mean?
Milton's phrase uses 'melodious tear' to suggest that genuine artistic beauty often emerges from deep sorrow or empathy.
In plain terms
Artistic beauty often comes from deep sorrow or empathy.
What can you take from it?
True expression is rooted in emotional vulnerability.

Where it applies

  • creative writing
  • poetry analysis
  • emotional reflection

Putting it to work

  • analyze poetry
  • explore grief in art
  • discuss emotional depth

Questions to consider

  • What role does sadness play in your creative work?
  • Is beauty always linked to pain?

Another view

The phrasing is archaic and may be unclear without context.

More from John Milton

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  3. Yet once more, O ye laurels, and once more Ye myrtles brown, with ivy never sere, I come to pluck your berries harsh and crude, And with forced fingers rude Sh…

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