Some dreams we have are nothing else but dreams, Unnatural and full of contradictions; Yet others of our most romantic schemes, Are something more than fictions.
Thomas HoodRead
Lives of great men oft remind us as we o'er their pages turn, That we too may leave behind us - Letters that we ought to burn.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote reflects on the legacy left by great individuals and the reminder of our own impact on the world.
Thomas Hood's quote suggests that as we read about the lives of remarkable people, we are reminded of our potential to create a lasting impact. It also conveys a cautionary note about the importance of being mindful of what we leave behind, hinting at the idea that there may be parts of our experiences or writings that we would prefer to keep hidden or 'burn' rather than share with others.
Themes
LegacyGreatnessImpactReflectionLife
In practice
Example use cases
In a graduation speech to inspire students about their potential legacies.
More from Thomas Hood
All quotes βTis like the birthday of the world,_x000D_ _x000D_ When earth was born in bloom;_x000D_ _x000D_ The light is made of many dyes,_x000D_ _x000D_ The air is all perfume:_x000D_ _x000D_ There's crimson buds, and white and blue,_x000D_ _x000D_ The very rainbow showers_x000D_ _x000D_ Have turned to blossoms where they fell,_x000D_ _x000D_ And sown the earth with flowers.
Thomas HoodRead
Some minds improve by travel, others, rather, resemble copper wire, or brass, which get the narrower by going farther.
Thomas HoodRead
It was a childish ignorance, But now 'tis little joy To know I'm further off from heaven Than when I was a boy.
Thomas HoodRead
The Autumn is old; The sere leaves are flying; He hath gather'd up gold, And now he is dying;- Old age, begin sighing!
Thomas HoodRead
I resolved that, like the sun, as long as my day lasted, I would look on the bright side of everything.
Thomas HoodRead
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