From morn To noon he fell, from noon to dewy eve,- A summer's day; and with the setting sun Dropp'd from the Zenith like a falling star.
Interpretation
This quote reflects on the transient nature of life, emphasizing how quickly time passes from day to day.
John Milton uses the imagery of a summer's day to illustrate the fleeting nature of human existence. The transition from morning to evening symbolizes the stages of life, suggesting that just as the day ends and the sun sets, so too do our lives come to an end, much like a star falling from the sky. This serves as a reminder of the inevitability of mortality and the importance of cherishing every moment.
In practice
This quote is perfect for a reflective speech about appreciating life.
They, looking back, all the eastern side beheld Of Paradise, so late their happy seat, Waved over by that flaming brand, the gate With dreadful faces thronged and fiery arms: Some natural tears they dropped, but wiped them soon; The world was all before them, where to choose Their place of rest, and Providence their guide; They, hand in hand, with wandering steps and slow, Through Eden took their solitary way.
The stars, that nature hung in heaven, and filled their lamps with everlasting oil, give due light to the misled and lonely traveller.
Ev'n them who kept thy truth so pure of old, When all our fathers worshipp'd stocks and stones.
Abashed the devil stood and felt how awful goodness is and saw Virtue in her shape how lovely: and pined his loss
The end of all learning is to know God, and out of that knowledge to love and imitate Him.
Apt words have power to suage the tumors of a troubled mind.
The truth is, I'm just a rough old New Zealander who has enjoyed many challenges in his life.
When I am dead, my dearest,_x000D_ _x000D_ Sing no sad songs for me
For the complete life, the perfect pattern includes old age as well as youth and maturity.
I don't think that because I'm not married it's made my life any less. That old maid myth is garbage.
The side of fairytales I don't like is that they always have happy endings, that there's just good and evil, and things are perfect. But life is a little more complicated, and that's what I try to teach my kids.
Take life too seriously, and what is it worth? If the morning wake us to no new joys, if the evening bring us not the hope of new pleasure, is it worthwhile to dress and undress?
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