Thou art a man God is no more Thy own humanity Learn to adore
William BlakeRead
Oh! why was I born with a different face? why was I not born like the rest of my race? when I look,each one starts! when I speak, I offend; then Im silent & passive & lose every friend. Then my verse I dishonour, my pictures despise, my person degrade & my temper chastise; and the pen is my terror, the pencil my shame; all my talents I bury, and dead is my fame. Im either too low or too highly prized; when elate I m envy'd, when meek Im despis'd
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote expresses the pain of feeling different and the struggle for acceptance in society.
William Blake's quote poignantly captures the feelings of alienation and internal conflict experienced by those who perceive themselves as different from societal norms. It reflects on the emotional turmoil of yearning for acceptance while grappling with self-doubt and the burdens of one’s talents, leading to a struggle between pride and humility. The speaker’s lament about their appearance, voice, and creative expression underscores the broader themes of individuality, societal judgment, and the quest for identity in a world that often values conformity over uniqueness.
Themes
AcceptanceAlienationIdentitySelf-DoubtIndividuality
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be used in a speech about embracing individuality and the importance of self-acceptance.
More from William Blake
All quotes →In 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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