Liberty's in every blow! Let us do or die.
Robert BurnsRead
But to see her was to love her, Love but her, and love forever. Had we never lou'd sae kindly, Had we never lou'd sae blindly, Never met - or never parted - We had ne'er been broken hearted
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote expresses the deep and enduring nature of love, suggesting that true love arises from genuine connection.
In this quote by Robert Burns, the speaker reflects on the paradox of love; that to see someone is to fall in love with them, and that this love can lead to lasting devotion. It also highlights the pain that can come from love, as the speaker contemplates how their lives would have been different if they had never experienced love at all—implying that the joys of love are intertwined with the sorrows that can follow, such as heartbreak and separation.
Themes
LoveHeartbreakDevotionLossExperience
In practice
Example use cases
This quote would be perfect to share at a wedding to emphasize the beauty of love.
More from Robert Burns
All quotes →I'm truly sorry man's dominion has broken Nature's social union.
Robert BurnsRead
Love's first snow-drop, virgin kiss.
Robert BurnsRead
All-cheering Plenty, with her flowing horn, Led yellow Autumn, wreath'd with nodding corn.
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Should auld acquaintance be forgot, And never brought to min?
Robert BurnsRead
Apropos, is not the Scotch phrase 'Auld Lang Syne' exceedingly expressive? I shall give you the verses on the other sheet. The words of 'Auld Lang Syne' are good, but the music is an old air, the rudiments of the modern tune of that name. ... Dare to be honest and fear no labor. ... Opera is where a man gets stabbed in the back, and instead of dying, he sings. ... Chords that vibrate sweetest pleasure thrill the deepest notes of woe. ... Critics! Those cut-throat bandits in the paths of fame.
Robert BurnsRead
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