As honour, love, obedience, troops of friends, / I must not look to have; but, in their stead, / Curses, not loud but deep, mouth-honour, breath, / Which the poor heart would fain deny, and dare not" (5.3.25-28).
William ShakespeareRead
They are fairies; he that speaks to them shall die. I'll wink and couch; no man their works must eye.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote references the elusive and dangerous nature of fairies, suggesting that those who meddle with them may face dire consequences.
In this quote, Shakespeare articulates the idea that fairies, often seen as enchanting yet treacherous, possess a magical influence that is both alluring and perilous. The imagery of speaking to them leading to death underscores the notion that some realms, particularly those of art and fantasy, require caution and respect, as they hold powers beyond human understanding. The speaker's intention to remain unnoticed ('I'll wink and couch') indicates a desire to engage with this magic only from a safe distance, highlighting the complex relationship between humanity and the enchanting but dangerous forces of nature and creativity.
Themes
FairiesMagicDangerArtShakespeare
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be used in a discussion about the themes of fantasy in literature.
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All quotes βLove bears it out even to the edge of doom.
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Absence doth sharpen love, presence strengthens it; the one brings fuel, the other blows it till it burns clear.
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Lord, Lord, how this world is given to lying!
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Give it an understanding, but no tongue.
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