Thou art a man God is no more Thy own humanity Learn to adore
William BlakeRead
Naught can deform the human race Like to the armor's iron brace.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Human potential and integrity can be compromised by oppressive forces or societal constraints.
In this quote, William Blake reflects on how external forces, represented metaphorically as 'armor's iron brace,' can inhibit the natural and inherent qualities of humanity. He suggests that such constraints not only restrict individual expression but also deform the essence of what it means to be human, implying that freedom and openness are essential for true human development.
Themes
HumanityFreedomOppressionExternal ForcesIntegrity
In practice
Example use cases
In a debate about individual rights, one might use this quote to emphasize the dangers of societal norms that limit human potential.
More from William Blake
All quotes βIn seed time learn, in harvest teach, in winter enjoy.
William BlakeRead
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.
William BlakeRead
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.
William BlakeRead
As the caterpillar chooses the fairest leaves to lay her eggs on, so the priest lays his curse on the fairest joys.
William BlakeRead
He who would do good to another must do it in minute particulars.
William BlakeRead
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