Go, Soul, the body's guest, Upon a thankless arrant: Fear not to touch the best; The truth shall be thy warrant: Go, since I needs must die, And give the world the lie. Say to the court, it glows And shines like rotten wood; Say to the church, it shows What's good, and doth no good: If church and court reply, Then give them both the lie.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- The soul should speak truth to corrupt institutions like court and church even if it leads to death.
- In plain terms
- Speak the truth about corrupt groups even if it gets you in trouble.
- What can you take from it?
- Truth and integrity matter more than safety or approval.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- When is it right to speak truth to power?
- Is death worth the truth?
Another view
Direct confrontation can sometimes lead to unnecessary self-destruction.
More from Sir Walter Raleigh
If all the world and love were young, And truth in every shepherd's tongue, These pretty pleasures might me move To live with thee and be thy Love.
Permalink to quote #3 So when thou hast, as I Commanded thee, done blabbing - Although to give the lie Deserves no less than stabbing - Stab at thee he that will, No stab the soul c…
Permalink to quote #5 No man is wise or safe, but he that is honest.
Permalink to quote #2
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