Women know the way to rear up children (to be just). They know a simple, merry, tender knack of tying sashes, fitting baby-shoes, and stringing pretty words that make no sense. And kissing full sense into empty words.
Elizabeth Barrett BrowningRead
We all have known good critics, who have stamped out poet's hopes; Good statesmen, who pulled ruin on the state; Good patriots, who, for a theory, risked a cause; Good kings, who disemboweled for a tax; Good Popes, who brought all good to jeopardy; Good Christians, who sat still in easy-chairs; And damned the general world for standing up. Now, may the good God pardon all good men!
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote reflects on the paradox of 'good' people who, through their actions or inaction, cause harm or stagnation.
Elizabeth Barrett Browning's quote explores the ironic nature of individuals who are considered 'good' yet contribute to destructive outcomes. It highlights the complexities of human morality by illustrating how those with good intentions, such as critics, statesmen, and religious leaders, often fail to act in ways that genuinely benefit society. This commentary calls into question the definition of goodness and suggests that the impact of one's actions, not intentions, is what truly matters. In the end, it appeals for divine forgiveness for those who, despite their goodness, have caused harm.
Themes
GoodnessMoralityActionIntentionSociety
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech about community and activism, one might use this quote to emphasize the importance of actionable change rather than passive goodness.
More from Elizabeth Barrett Browning
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First time he kissed me, he but only kissed The fingers of this hand wherewith I write; And, ever since, it grew more clean and white.
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Earth's crammed with heaven, And every common bush afire with God: But only he who sees takes off his shoes.
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Our Euripides the human, With his droppings of warm tears, and his touchings of things common Till they rose to meet the spheres.
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Love me sweet With all thou art Feeling, thinking, seeing; Love me in the Lightest part, Love me in full Being.
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