The look of love alarms Because 'tis filled with fire; But the look of soft deceit Shall win the lover's hire.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Authentic love is intense and alarming, while deceit looks softer but manipulates.
- In plain terms
- Real love feels intense, but lies look gentle to trick you.
- What can you take from it?
- Authenticity often feels dangerous, while deception appears safe.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Why do genuine feelings often feel more threatening than fake ones?
Another view
Intensity does not always guarantee honesty or health.
More from William Blake
He who binds to himself a joy Does the winged life destroy; But he who kisses the joy as it flies Lives in eternity's sunrise.
Permalink to quote #92 What is it men in women do require? The lineaments of gratified desire. What is it women in men require? The lineaments of gratified desire.
Permalink to quote #94 Then old Nobodaddy aloft Farted and belched and coughed, And said, 'I love hanging and drawing and quartering Every bit as well as war and slaughtering.'
Permalink to quote #91
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