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Every harlot was a virgin once.
William Blake
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Interpretation

What this quote means

This quote suggests that everyone has a past that may not define their present circumstances.

William Blake's quote highlights the idea that every person starts from a place of innocence and potential before their life experiences shape who they become. It serves as a reminder that past actions or statuses should not solely define a person's identity or worth, and that transformation is always possible.

Themes

InnocenceTransformationIdentityPastExperience

In practice

Example use cases

In a discussion about personal growth, one might quote Blake to emphasize that everyone has had a time of purity.

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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.
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As the caterpillar chooses the fairest leaves to lay her eggs on, so the priest lays his curse on the fairest joys.
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He who would do good to another must do it in minute particulars.
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Quote by William Blake | QuoteProject