But what is Hope? Nothing but the paint on the face of Existence; the least touch of truth rubs it off, and then we see what a hollow-cheeked harlot we have got hold of.
Lord ByronRead
The drying up a single tear has more, of honest fame, than shedding seas of gore.
Interpretation
What this quote means
It is better to express genuine human emotion than to engage in violence.
This quote by Lord Byron conveys the idea that authentic expressions of sorrow or compassion hold more value and integrity than acts of violence and bloodshed. It highlights the importance of emotional depth and humanity over physical conflict, suggesting that true honor lies in kindness and sensitivity rather than in aggression and warfare.
Themes
EmotionHumanityViolenceCompassionHonor
In practice
Example use cases
During a public speech about the importance of empathy in conflict resolution.
More from Lord Byron
All quotes βIt is the lava of the imagination whose eruption prevents an earthquake.
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For what were all these country patriots born? To hunt, and vote, and raise the price of corn?
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Absence - that common cure of love.
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Her great merit is finding out mine; there is nothing so amiable as discernment.
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But words are things, and a small drop of ink, Falling like dew, upon a thought, produces That which makes thousands, perhaps millions, think.
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