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When the green woods laugh with the voice of joy, And the dimpling stream runs laughing by; When the air does laugh with our merry wit, And the green hill laughs with the noise of it.
William Blake
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Interpretation

What this quote means

This quote reflects the beauty and joy found in nature and the connection between human happiness and the natural world.

In this quote, William Blake portrays a harmonious relationship between nature and human joy. He suggests that the laughter of the woods, streams, and hills mirrors the joyfulness of human spirit, emphasizing how deeply interconnected our emotions are with the environment around us. The imagery of laughing elements in nature illustrates a vibrant scene where every aspect of the landscape participates in the celebration of life, inspiring an appreciation for the beauty and joy that can be found in the world.

Themes

NatureJoyHarmonyHappinessConnection

In practice

Example use cases

Quote this at a nature retreat to inspire participants.

More from William Blake

Thou art a man God is no more Thy own humanity Learn to adore
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In seed time learn, in harvest teach, in winter enjoy.
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O thou who passest through our valleys in Thy strength, curb thy fierce steeds, allay the heat That flames from their large nostrils! Thou, O Summer, Oft pitchest here thy golden tent, and oft Beneath our oaks hast slept, while we beheld With joy thy ruddy limbs and flourishing hair.
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Every Night and every Morn Some to Misery are born. Every Morn and every Night Some are born to Sweet Delight, Some are born to Endless Night.
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As the caterpillar chooses the fairest leaves to lay her eggs on, so the priest lays his curse on the fairest joys.
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He who would do good to another must do it in minute particulars.
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