A soul so pitiably forlorn, If such do on this earth abide, May season apathy with scorn, May turn indifference to pride; And still be not unblest- compared With him who grovels, self-debarred From all that lies within the scope Of holy faith and christian hope; Or, shipwrecked, kindles on the coast False fires, that others may be lost.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Even a bitter soul is better than one who actively harms others through misplaced zeal or self-destruction.
- In plain terms
- Being angry is not as bad as hurting others with fake faith.
- What can you take from it?
- Harm done to others is worse than internal pain.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Can you be bitter and good?
- What is worse: apathy or malice?
Another view
Internal suffering is still painful.
More from William Wordsworth
Lives there a man whose sole delights Are trivial pomp and city noise, Hardening a heart that loathes or slights What every natural heart enjoys?
Permalink to quote #70 But hushed be every thought that springs From out the bitterness of things.
Permalink to quote #72 The flower of sweetest smell is shy and lowly.
Permalink to quote #69
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