Still as they run they look behind, They hear a voice in every wind, And snatch a fearful joy.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- People fleeing danger often look back in fear, hearing threats everywhere, yet find strange pleasure in surviving.
- In plain terms
- Those running from danger look back nervously and feel a mix of fear and relief.
- What can you take from it?
- Survival can bring a strange mix of fear and happiness.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- When have you felt joy mixed with fear?
- Why do we look back when running?
Another view
The quote assumes fear is universal in escape, which may not apply to brave rescuers.
More from Thomas Gray
Ye distant spires, ye antique towers, That crown the wat'ry glade.
Permalink to quote #12 Alas, regardless of their doom, The little victims play! No sense have they of ills to come, Nor care beyond today.
Permalink to quote #14 Sweet is the breath of vernal shower, The bee's collected treasures sweet, Sweet music's melting fall, but sweeter yet The still small voice of gratitude.
Permalink to quote #11
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