The lark that shuns on lofty boughs to build, Her humble nest, lies silent in the field.
Edmund WallerRead
All human things Of dearest value hang on slender strings.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote suggests that the most precious aspects of human life are often fragile and precarious.
Edmund Waller's quote reflects the idea that the most valuable elements of our existence—such as love, relationships, and hopes—are often held together by delicate circumstances. It serves as a reminder that appreciation and mindfulness are crucial when it comes to the things we cherish, as they may not be as stable or enduring as we assume.
Themes
FragilityValueRelationshipsLifeAppreciation
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech about the importance of loved ones, one might use this quote to emphasize the need to cherish our relationships.
More from Edmund Waller
All quotes →Could we forbear dispute, and practise love,_x000D_ _x000D_ We should agree as angels do above.
Edmund WallerRead
The chain that's fixed to the throne of Jove, On which the fabric of our world depends, One link dissolved, the whole creation ends.
Edmund WallerRead
The soul's dark cottage, batter'd and decay'd, Lets in new light through chinks that Time has made. Stronger by weakness, wiser men become As they draw near to their eternal home: Leaving the old, both worlds at once they view That stand upon the threshold of the new.
Edmund WallerRead
Music so softens and disarms the mind That not an arrow does resistance find.
Edmund WallerRead
Vexed sailors cursed the rain, for which poor shepherds prayed in vain.
Edmund WallerRead
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