Action is transitory - a step, a blow- The motion of a muscle- this way or that- 'Tis done; and in the after-vacancy We wonder at ourselves like men betrayed.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Physical actions are quick and fleeting, leaving us to wonder later why we acted as we did.
- In plain terms
- Actions happen fast and then we wonder why we did them.
- What can you take from it?
- Actions pass quickly and often leave us questioning ourselves.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Do you regret quick actions?
- How do you reflect on moves you made?
Another view
Some actions are deliberate and not regretted.
More from William Wordsworth
Love had he found in huts where poor men lie; His daily teachers had been woods and rills, The silence that is in the starry sky, The sleep that is among the l…
Permalink to quote #56 A few strong instincts and a few plain rules, Among the herdsmen of the Alps, have wrought More for mankind at this unhappy day Then all the pride of intellect…
Permalink to quote #58 Two Voices are there; one is of the sea, One of the mountains; each a mighty Voice.
Permalink to quote #55
Related quotes
He who hesitates is a damned fool.
Mae WestMae West quote #18 'My only true regret, however, is that now that I see the world more clearly than ever, as I believe I do, I don't seem to have the time left to translate my v…
Arthur AsheArthur Ashe quote #26 There is no need to make an inventory of the times. It is demoralizing to describe ourselves to ourselves yet again. It is especially hard on us since we belie…
Saul BellowSaul Bellow quote #27