Men are but children of a larger growth, Our appetites as apt to change as theirs, And full as craving too, and full as vain.
John DrydenRead
When he spoke, what tender words he used! So softly, that like flakes of feathered snow, They melted as they fell.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote describes the gentle and impactful nature of someone's words, likening them to soft, delicate snowflakes.
In this quote, John Dryden reflects on the beauty and tenderness of someone's speech. The comparison of their words to 'flakes of feathered snow' suggests that when they spoke, their words were not only gentle but also had a profound effect, melting away barriers and touching hearts with their softness and sincerity.
Themes
WordsTendernessSpeechGentlenessCommunication
In practice
Example use cases
In a romantic setting, one might quote this to emphasize the beauty of their partner's words.
More from John Dryden
All quotes βOf no distemper, of no blast he died, _x000D_ But fell like autumn fruit that mellow'd long: _x000D_ Even wonder'd at, because he dropp'd no sooner. _x000D_ Fate seem'd to wind him up for fourscore years; _x000D_ Yet freshly ran he on ten winters more; _x000D_ Till like a clock worn out with eating time, _x000D_ The wheels of weary life at last stood still.
John DrydenRead
Or hast thou known the world so long in vain?
John DrydenRead
Shame on the body for breaking down while the spirit perseveres.
John DrydenRead
Love reckons hours for months, and days for years; and every little absence is an age.
John DrydenRead
And write whatever Time shall bring to pass_x000D_ _x000D_ With pens of adamant on plates of brass.
John DrydenRead
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