Thou art a man God is no more Thy own humanity Learn to adore
The cut worm forgives the plow.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote suggests that even those who suffer or are harmed can find it within themselves to forgive their oppressors.
William Blake's quote, 'The cut worm forgives the plow,' conveys a profound message about forgiveness and resilience. It implies that just as a worm that has been harmed by a plow can choose to forgive rather than harbor resentment, individuals in difficult situations can also reflect on the importance of letting go of past grievances. This notion encourages a mindset of compassion and understanding, even toward those who may have caused us pain.
Themes
In practice
Example use cases
During a motivational talk about overcoming adversity, one could quote this to illustrate the power of forgiveness.
More from William Blake
All quotes βIn seed time learn, in harvest teach, in winter enjoy.
O thou who passest through our valleys in Thy strength, curb thy fierce steeds, allay the heat That flames from their large nostrils! Thou, O Summer, Oft pitchest here thy golden tent, and oft Beneath our oaks hast slept, while we beheld With joy thy ruddy limbs and flourishing hair.
Every Night and every Morn Some to Misery are born. Every Morn and every Night Some are born to Sweet Delight, Some are born to Endless Night.
As the caterpillar chooses the fairest leaves to lay her eggs on, so the priest lays his curse on the fairest joys.
He who would do good to another must do it in minute particulars.
Similar quotes
It almost hurts me to walk down a road and have people grab my hand and ask for my autograph and not sit and talk. When I'm finished I'm not going to be on the front page, but I'm going to be just as happy without the publicity.
He is the best preacher, not that tickles the ear, but that breaks the heart.
Fear is what prevents the flowering of the mind.
I believe that we have been doing this not primarily to achieve riches or even honour, but rather because we were interested in the work, enjoyed doing it and felt very strongly that it was worthwhile.
I have found it very important in my own life to try to let go of my wishes and instead to live in hope. I am finding that when I choose to let go of my sometimes petty and superficial wishes and trust that my life is precious and meaningful in the eyes of God something really new, something beyond my own expectations begins to happen for me. (Finding My Way Home)
The mature person meets the demands of life, while the immature person demands that life meet her demands.