Do good by stealth, and blush to find it fame.
Alexander PopeRead
The season when to come, and when to go, to sing, or cease to sing, we never know.
Interpretation
What this quote means
We often lack knowledge about the right timing for our actions in life.
This quote reflects on the uncertainty of life and the unpredictability of timing in our actions, such as when to engage or withdraw, express joy or silence our feelings. It suggests that despite our efforts to foresee the best moments to act, we cannot always know the right time to pursue our passions or remain still.
Themes
TimingUncertaintyActionsLifePhilosophy
In practice
Example use cases
Use this quote in a speech about the unpredictability of life and making choices.
More from Alexander Pope
All quotes →What dire offence from am'rous causes springs, What mighty contests rise from trivial things.
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Fair tresses man's imperial race ensnare; And beauty draws us with a single hair.
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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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