If a poet interprets a poem of his own he limits its suggestibility.
William Butler YeatsRead
The Mask "Put off that mask of burning gold With emerald eyes." "O no, my dear, you make so bold To find if hearts be wild and wise, And yet not cold." "I would but find what's there to find, Love or deceit." "It was the mask engaged your mind, And after set your heart to beat, Not what's behind." "But lest you are my enemy, I must enquire." "O no, my dear, let all that be, What matter, so there is but fire In you, in me?"
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote explores the themes of identity and authenticity in love, suggesting that true connection goes beyond surface appearances.
In this quote by William Butler Yeats, the speaker grapples with the concept of masks we wear in relationships, questioning the authenticity of emotions that lie behind them. The dialogue reflects a desire to uncover genuine feelings amidst the layers of deception often inherent in love, emphasizing that it is the passion within each person that truly matters, rather than external facades or pretenses.
Themes
LoveIdentityAuthenticityEmotionDeceitPassion
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be used in a wedding speech to emphasize the importance of authenticity in relationships.
More from William Butler Yeats
All quotes →It was my first meeting with a philosophy that confirmed my vague speculations and seemed at once logical and boundless.
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But I, being poor, have only my dreams; I have spread my dreams under your feet; Tread softly because you tread on my dreams.
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How far away the stars seem, and how far is our first kiss, and ah, how old my heart.
William Butler YeatsRead
For he would be thinking of love Till the stars had run away And the shadows eaten the moon.
William Butler YeatsRead
Love is created and preserved by intellectual analysis, for we love only that which is unique, and it belongs to contemplation, not to action, for we would not change that which we love.
William Butler YeatsRead
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