If two lives join, there is oft a scar. They are one and one, with a shadowy third; One near one is too far.
Robert BrowningRead
Since there my past life lies, why alter it?
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote suggests that one should accept and not change their past, as it is an integral part of their current existence.
Robert Browning's quote reflects the acceptance of oneβs past as an immutable part of their identity. By stating 'why alter it?', Browning implies that the past shapes who we are today and attempting to change it is futile; instead, we should embrace our life's journey.
Themes
PastAcceptanceIdentityLifePhilosophy
In practice
Example use cases
In a personal development seminar, one might use this quote to emphasize the importance of accepting one's history to move forward.
More from Robert Browning
All quotes βTis Man's to explore up and down, inch by inch, with the taper his reason.
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I dare not so honor my mere wishes and prayers as to put them for a moment beside your noble acts; but this know, I would rather submit to the worst of deaths, so far as pain goes, than have a single dog or cat tortured on the pretence of sparing me a twinge or two.
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How well I know what I mean to do When the long dark Autumn evenings come, And where, my soul, is thy pleasant hue? With the music of all thy voices, dumb In lifeβs November too! I shall be found by the fire, suppose, Oβer a great wise book as beseemeth age, While the shutters flap as the cross-wind blows, And I turn the page, and I turn the page, Not verse now, only prose!
Robert BrowningRead
How good is life, the mere living!
Robert BrowningRead
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