Sweet bird, that shun the noise of folly, most musical, most melancholy!
Interpretation
The quote celebrates a bird that avoids the foolishness of the world, representing beauty and sorrow in its music.
In this quote, John Milton reflects on the idea of an idealized bird that escapes the chaos and foolishness of life. The 'sweet bird' symbolizes purity and a deep emotional resonance, contrasting with the noise of folly that surrounds it. This image evokes themes of beauty and sadness, suggesting that true artistry comes from a place of introspection and distance from the trivial pursuits of society.
In practice
This quote could be used in a speech about the importance of artistic expression amidst societal chaos.
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.
Ever since I was a child I've always been very attracted to melodies. Whether I hear Jeff Beck, a choir, an ocean or the wind, there's always a melody in there.
I am, and forever will be, devastated by the gift of Audrey Hepburn before my camera. I cannot lift her to greater heights. She is already there. I can only record. I cannot interpret her. There is no going further than who she is. She has achieved in herself her ultimate portrait.
Write about what really interests you, whether it is real things or imaginary things, and nothing else. (Notice this means that if you are interested only in writing you will never be a writer, because you will have nothing to write about...)
I figured as long as the music stayed hot and important and good, that there would always be a reason for 'Soul Train.'
Everything of mine is permeated with my love of ideas-both big and small. It doesn't matter what it is, as long as it grabs me and holds me, facinates me. And then I'll run out and something about it... I write for fun.
I never go outside unless I look like Joan Crawford the movie star. If you want to see the girl next door, go next door.
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