Tell troth and shame the devil.
Ben JonsonRead
Still may syllables jar with time,_x000D_ _x000D_ Still may reason war with rhyme,_x000D_ _x000D_ Resting never!
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote reflects the tension between logic and creativity, suggesting that both reason and artistic expression are in constant conflict.
Ben Jonson emphasizes the eternal struggle between the rational mind and the creative spirit. He suggests that while reason may attempt to impose order and clarity, the chaotic nature of creativity and poetical expression can disrupt this balance, creating a dynamic interplay between logic and art that is always at odds yet undeniably essential.
Themes
ReasonRhymeCreativityConflictPoetry
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech about the balance between creativity and logic.
More from Ben Jonson
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All concord's born of contraries.
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Queen and huntress, chaste and fair Now the sun is laid to sleep, Seated in thy silver chair, State in wonted manner keep: Hesperus entreats thy light Goddess, excellently bright.
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I know no disease of the soul but ignorance, a pernicious evil, the darkener of man's life, the disturber of his reason, and common confounder of truth.
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You are not now to think what's best to do, _x000D_ As in beginnings, but what must be done, _x000D_ Being thus enter'd; and slip no advantage _x000D_ That may secure you. Let them call it mischief; _x000D_ When it is past, and prosper'd , 'twill be virtue.
Ben JonsonRead
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