If a poet interprets a poem of his own he limits its suggestibility.
William Butler YeatsRead
Things said or done long years ago Or things I did not do or say But thought that I might say or do, Weigh me down, and not a day But something is recalled, My conscience or my vanity appalled.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Past actions and unfulfilled intentions can burden one's conscience and self-image.
This quote by William Butler Yeats reflects on the heavy weight of past actions and missed opportunities that linger in one's mind. It suggests that both things we have done and things we have only contemplated can haunt us, causing distress and reflection on our conscience and personal pride.
Themes
ConscienceReflectionPastIntentionsBurden
In practice
Example use cases
During a motivational speech about personal growth, one could use this quote to emphasize the importance of addressing regrets.
More from William Butler Yeats
All quotes →It was my first meeting with a philosophy that confirmed my vague speculations and seemed at once logical and boundless.
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But I, being poor, have only my dreams; I have spread my dreams under your feet; Tread softly because you tread on my dreams.
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How far away the stars seem, and how far is our first kiss, and ah, how old my heart.
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For he would be thinking of love Till the stars had run away And the shadows eaten the moon.
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Love is created and preserved by intellectual analysis, for we love only that which is unique, and it belongs to contemplation, not to action, for we would not change that which we love.
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