Than Timoleon's arms require, And Tully's curule chair, and Milton's golden lyre.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- The quote lists symbols of military power, political authority, and artistic genius to suggest human desires or needs are vast.
- In plain terms
- People crave many different forms of power and beauty.
- What can you take from it?
- Human ambition extends across many domains.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- What symbols represent power to you?
Another view
It assumes these specific historical figures represent universal ideals.
More from Mark Akenside
The man forget not, though in rags he lies, And know the mortal through a crown's disguise.
Permalink to quote #3 Such and so various are the tastes of men.
Permalink to quote #2 Seeks painted trifles and fantastic toys, And eagerly pursues imaginary joys.
Permalink to quote #1
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