Be your strong and simple words Keen to wound as sharpened swords, And wide as targes let them be, With their shade to cover ye.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Speak clearly and powerfully; your words should hurt enemies and protect allies.
- In plain terms
- Use strong words that cut like swords but also shield you.
- What can you take from it?
- Make your words sharp for attack and wide for defense.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- How do you use your words?
- Are your words defensive or offensive?
Another view
Words rarely have physical protective qualities.
More from Percy Bysshe Shelley
From the haunts of daily life Where is waged the daily strife With common wants and common cares Which sows the human heart with tares.
Permalink to quote #109 Stand ye calm and resolute, Like a forest close and mute, With folded arms and looks which are Weapons of unvanquished war.
Permalink to quote #111 Let the blue sky overhead, The green earth on which ye tread, All that must eternal be Witness the solemnity.
Permalink to quote #108
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