Love, whether newly born, or aroused from a deathlike slumber, must always create sunshine, filling the heart so full of radiance, this it overflows upon the outward world.
Nathaniel HawthorneRead
In the depths of every heart there is a tomb and a dungeon, though the lights, the music, and the revelry above may cause us to forget their existence.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote suggests that everyone has hidden struggles and sorrows, despite outward appearances of joy and celebration.
Nathaniel Hawthorne's quote reflects on the dual nature of human experience, where beneath the surface of joy and celebration, there often lie deep emotional struggles and pain. The imagery of a 'tomb' and 'dungeon' symbolizes the hidden suffering that exists within each individual, reminding us that while we may be caught up in festivities, we should be aware of the darker aspects of human existence. It invites introspection and acknowledges that life is not solely about the outward appearances of happiness.
Themes
Hidden StrugglesEmotionsJoySorrowIntrospection
In practice
Example use cases
During a mental health awareness event, to remind people that everyone has unseen battles.
More from Nathaniel Hawthorne
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All merely graceful attributes are usually the most evanescent.
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There is so much wretchedness in the world, that we may safely take the word of any mortal professing to need our assistance; and, even should we be deceived, still the good to ourselves resulting from a kind act is worth more than the trifle by which we purchase it.
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Let men tremble to win the hand of woman, unless they win along with it the utmost passion of her heart! Else it may be their miserable fortune, when some mightier touch than their own may have awakened all her sensibilities, to be reproached even for the calm content, the marble image of happiness, which they will have imposed upon her as the warm reality.
Nathaniel HawthorneRead
The thing you set your mind on is the thing you ultimately become.
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A society is in decay, final or transitional, when common sense really becomes uncommon.
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