The stars, that nature hung in heaven, and filled their lamps with everlasting oil, give due light to the misled and lonely traveller.
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.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote reflects on the loss of paradise and the journey of life that follows, emphasizing choice and guidance.
In this passage from John Milton's work, the characters are facing the reality of their expulsion from Paradise, confronted by the gravity of their situation but also aware of the limitless possibilities that lie ahead. The imagery of a 'flaming brand' as the gate and the presence of 'dreadful faces' underscore the weight of their loss, while the phrase 'the world was all before them' highlights the freedom of choice they now possess. They embark on their journey, guided by Providence, symbolizing faith and hope despite their sorrow.
Themes
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be used in a motivational speech about overcoming loss and embracing new beginnings.
More from John Milton
All quotes →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.
Bacchus, that first from out the purple grape_x000D_ _x000D_ Crush'd the sweet poison of misused wine.
Similar quotes
Life is the external text, the burning bush by the edge of the path from which God speaks.
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It wasn't until I got to Cambridge that I discovered active discrimination against women.
The great fault of all ethics hitherto has been that they believed themselves to have to deal only with the relations of man to man. In reality, however, the question is what is his attitude to the world and all life that comes within his reach.
Fish," the old man said. "Fish, you are going to have to die anyway. Do you have to kill me too?
Only those persons who have lived, really lived, are ready, welcoming, receptive, thankful to death. Then death is not the enemy. Then death becomes the fulfillment.