Do good by stealth, and blush to find it fame.
Alexander PopeRead
She went from opera, park, assembly, play,_x000D_ _x000D_ To morning walks, and prayers three hours a day._x000D_ _x000D_ To part her time 'twixt reading and bohea,_x000D_ _x000D_ To muse, and spill her solitary tea,_x000D_ _x000D_ Or o'er cold coffee trifle with the spoon,_x000D_ _x000D_ Count the slow clock, and dine exact at noon.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote reflects on a woman's daily routine, illustrating the contrast between her former active social life and her present solitary existence.
In this excerpt from Alexander Pope's work, the poet captures the transitions in a woman's life from a vibrant social schedule filled with cultural and communal engagements to a serene but solitary daily routine marked by personal reflection and simple pleasures. This juxtaposition highlights the changes in her lifestyle and perhaps conveys a deeper commentary on the nature of solitude and the passage of time in relation to one's previously active life.
Themes
RoutineSolitudeReflectionLifeChange
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech about the importance of adapting to life changes, this quote can emphasize how routines can evolve over time.
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An honest man's the noblest work of God.
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One thought of thee puts all the pomp to flight;_x000D_ _x000D_ Priests, tapers, temples, swim before my sight.
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Who breaks a butterfly on a wheel?
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