And we are put on earth a little space, That we may learn to bear the beams of love, And these black bodies and this sunburnt face Is but a cloud, and like a shady grove.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Human life is brief and meant for learning love, while dark skin is compared to a passing cloud.
- In plain terms
- We are on earth briefly to learn love and our bodies are just like a cloud.
- What can you take from it?
- Physical traits are temporary compared to spiritual lessons.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- What does the cloud metaphor imply?
- How do we bear the beams of love?
Another view
It minimizes the impact of physical discrimination.
More from William Blake
My mother bore me in the southern wild, And I am black, but O! my soul is white; White as an angel is the English child, But I am black as if bereaved of light.
Permalink to quote #40 I'll shade him from the heat till he can bear To lean in joy upon our Father's knee; And then I'll stand and stroke his silver hair, And be like him and he wil…
Permalink to quote #42 Little Lamb, who made thee? Dost thou know who made thee? Gave thee life and bid thee feed By the stream and o'er the mead; Gave thee clothing of delight, Soft…
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