But ne'er the rose without the thorn.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- The rose is beautiful but always accompanied by a thorn, symbolizing that good things often come with costs or risks.
- In plain terms
- Beauty usually comes with a price.
- What can you take from it?
- Accept the downsides that come with good things.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- What thorns come with your rose?
- Is the cost always worth the beauty?
Another view
It can be used to justify tolerating harm that should be avoided.
More from Robert Herrick
Attempt the end, and never stand to doubt; Nothing's so hard but search will find it out.
Permalink to quote #26 Get up, sweet Slug-a-bed, and see The dew bespangling herb and tree.
Permalink to quote #28 Outdid the meat, outdid the frolic wine.
Permalink to quote #25
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