As honour, love, obedience, troops of friends, / I must not look to have; but, in their stead, / Curses, not loud but deep, mouth-honour, breath, / Which the poor heart would fain deny, and dare not" (5.3.25-28).
William ShakespeareRead
If I profane with my unworthiest hand_x000D_ _x000D_ This holy shrine, the gentle fine is this:_x000D_ _x000D_ My lips, two blushing pilgrims, ready stand_x000D_ _x000D_ To smooth that rough touch with a tender kiss.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote expresses the deep reverence and desire of a lover for their beloved.
In this quote, Shakespeare uses the metaphor of a 'holy shrine' to signify the beloved's lips, suggesting that kissing is a sacred act. The speaker acknowledges their own unworthiness but expresses a profound longing to connect with their beloved through a tender kiss, illustrating the beauty and vulnerability of romantic love.
Themes
LoveAffectionDesireKissPilgrims
In practice
Example use cases
During a wedding speech, one might use this quote to emphasize the sacredness of love.
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