More skillful in self-knowledge, even more pure, As tempted more; more able to endure, As more exposed to suffering and distress.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- The speaker suggests that facing temptation and suffering builds self-knowledge and endurance.
- In plain terms
- Facing more suffering makes you more knowledgeable and enduring.
- What can you take from it?
- Hardship builds character and self-awareness.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Does pain teach wisdom?
- How do you grow?
Another view
Hardship does not guarantee growth.
More from William Wordsworth
Who, doomed to go in company with Pain, And Fear, and Bloodshed, miserable train! Turns his necessity to glorious gain.
Permalink to quote #157 But who, if he be called upon to face Some awful moment to which Heaven has joined Great issues, good or bad for human kind, Is happy as a Lover.
Permalink to quote #159 Who is the happy Warrior? Who is he That every man in arms should wish to be?
Permalink to quote #156
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