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Lives like a drunken sailor on a mast, Ready with every nod to tumble down Into the fatal bowels of the deep.
William Shakespeare
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Interpretation

What this quote means

This quote reflects the precarious nature of life and the risks associated with it.

William Shakespeare's quote captures the idea of living recklessly and on the edge, likening life to a drunken sailor perched precariously on a ship's mast. The imagery evokes the potential downfall that comes with such a lifestyle, illustrating how easily one can fall into danger and face dire consequences.

Themes

LifeRiskFearDangerRecklessness

In practice

Example use cases

This quote could be used in a motivational talk about taking risks in life.

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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).
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Love bears it out even to the edge of doom.
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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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