Love bears it out even to the edge of doom.
William ShakespeareRead
As honour, love, obedience, troops of friends, / I must not look to have; but, in their stead, / Curses, not loud but deep, mouth-honour, breath, / Which the poor heart would fain deny, and dare not" (5.3.25-28).
Interpretation
What this quote means
The speaker reflects on the emptiness of superficial honors and relationships, longing for genuine connections.
In this quote, Shakespeare explores the theme of authenticity versus superficiality. The speaker acknowledges the absence of true honor and love, instead facing insincere accolades and curses that weigh heavily on the heart. This contrast illustrates the pain of longing for meaningful relationships amidst a facade of false friendships and social expectations.
Themes
HonorLoveFriendshipAuthenticitySuperficiality
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be used in a speech about the importance of genuine relationships.
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Lord, Lord, how this world is given to lying!
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Give it an understanding, but no tongue.
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He's all my exercise, my mirth, my matter.
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