Good luck befriend thee, Son; for at thy birth The fairy ladies danced upon the hearth.
Interpretation
The quote expresses a wish for good fortune and happiness to accompany a person's life journey from birth.
In this quote, John Milton evokes the imagery of fairy ladies dancing at the birth of a child, symbolizing a blessing of good luck and happiness bestowed upon the newborn. It reflects the cultural belief that such auspicious events can shape a life filled with joy and fortune, emphasizing the hope that the child will be well-favored and supported throughout their journey in life.
In practice
A parent might share this quote at a baby shower to express their wishes for the child's future.
They, looking back, all the eastern side beheld Of Paradise, so late their happy seat, Waved over by that flaming brand, the gate With dreadful faces thronged and fiery arms: Some natural tears they dropped, but wiped them soon; The world was all before them, where to choose Their place of rest, and Providence their guide; They, hand in hand, with wandering steps and slow, Through Eden took their solitary way.
The stars, that nature hung in heaven, and filled their lamps with everlasting oil, give due light to the misled and lonely traveller.
Ev'n them who kept thy truth so pure of old, When all our fathers worshipp'd stocks and stones.
Abashed the devil stood and felt how awful goodness is and saw Virtue in her shape how lovely: and pined his loss
The end of all learning is to know God, and out of that knowledge to love and imitate Him.
Apt words have power to suage the tumors of a troubled mind.
Opposition is a natural part of life. Just as we develop our physical muscles through overcoming opposition - such as lifting weights - we develop our character muscles by overcoming challenges and adversity.
I'll die young, but it's like kissing God.
Things were rough all over, but it was better that way. That way you could tell the other guy was human too.
Life must be lived and curiosity kept alive. One must never, for whatever reason, turn his back on life.
I'm living everyday like a hustle. Another drug to juggle. Another day, another struggle.
As of today, I have absolutely no regrets. I think I am a mature person who can take things in stride. I'm grateful for people in my past. They helped me get to where I am, wherever that is. But now, I am thinking for myself and sitting in on all the business transactions.
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