O suffering, sad humanity! O ye afflicted ones, who lie Steeped to the lips in misery, Longing, yet afraid to die, Patient, though sorely tried!
Henry Wadsworth LongfellowRead
If the mind, that rules the body, ever so far forgets itself as to trample on its slave, the slave is never generous enough to forgive the injury, but will rise and smite the oppressor.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote reflects on the conflict between the mind and body, highlighting the consequences of oppression and the desire for freedom.
Henry Wadsworth Longfellow's quote explores the dynamic between the mind and body, suggesting that when the mind, which ideally should guide the body, becomes oppressive, it fosters resentment. The 'slave' represents those who are subjugated; they may appear to forgive, but the underlying anger can lead to rebellion against their oppressors. This reminds us of the importance of self-awareness and compassion, as oppression will inevitably create a desire for justice and revenge.
Themes
MindBodyOppressionForgivenessRebellionJustice
In practice
Example use cases
During a speech on mental health, one might reference this quote to highlight the importance of self-awareness.
More from Henry Wadsworth Longfellow
All quotes →There are moments in life, when the heart is so full of emotion That if by chance it be shaken, or into its depths like a pebble Drops some careless word, it overflows, and its secret, Spilt on the ground like water, can never be gathered together.
Henry Wadsworth LongfellowRead
Perseverance is a great element of success. If you only knock long enough and loud enough at the gate, you are sure to wake up somebody.
Henry Wadsworth LongfellowRead
To be seventy years old is like climbing the Alps. You reach a snow-crowned summit, and see behind you the deep valley stretching miles and miles away, and before you other summits higher and whiter, which you may have strength to climb, or may not. Then you sit down and meditate and wonder which it will be.
Henry Wadsworth LongfellowRead
God is not dead; nor doth He sleep; ... _x000D_ The wrong shall fail,_x000D_ The right prevail,_x000D_ With peace on earth, good will to men.
Henry Wadsworth LongfellowRead
In the long run men hit only what they aim at.
Henry Wadsworth LongfellowRead
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