My love is such that Rivers cannot quench, _x000D_ _x000D_ Nor ought but love from thee, give recompence. _x000D_ _x000D_ Thy love is such I can no way repay, _x000D_ _x000D_ The heavens reward thee manifold I pray.
Anne BradstreetRead
We must, therefore, be here as strangers and pilgrims, that we may plainly declare that we seek a city above.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote emphasizes the transient nature of our existence and a longing for a greater purpose beyond this life.
Anne Bradstreet's quote reflects the idea that human life is temporary and marked by an exploration for deeper meaning or a spiritual goal. The terms 'strangers and pilgrims' suggest that we are merely travelers on this earth, with our true home lying beyond our worldly experiences, symbolized by the 'city above'. This highlights a journey towards enlightenment and a pursuit of higher ideals.
Themes
TransiencePurposeSpiritualityJourneyExploration
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech about the pursuit of higher goals, you might say: 'As Anne Bradstreet once said, we must be here as strangers and pilgrims, seeking a city above.'
More from Anne Bradstreet
All quotes βIf we had not winter, the spring would not be so pleasant; if we did not sometimes taste of adversity, prosperity would not be so welcome.
Anne BradstreetRead
Iron till it be thoroughly heated is incapable to be wrought; so God sees good to cast some men into the furnace of affliction, and then beats them on His anvil into what frame He desires.
Anne BradstreetRead
O Time the fatal wrack of mortal things,_x000D_ That draws oblivion's curtains over kings;_x000D_ Their sumptuous monuments, men know them not,_x000D_ Their names without a record are forgot,_x000D_ Their parts, their ports, their pomps all laid in th' dust_x000D_ Nor wit nor gold, nor buildings scape time's rust;_x000D_ But he whose name is graved in the white stone_x000D_ Shall last and shine when all of these are gone.
Anne BradstreetRead
Authority without wisdom is like a heavy ax without an edge -- fitter to bruise than polish.
Anne BradstreetRead
That when we live no more, We may live ever
Anne BradstreetRead
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