Do good by stealth, and blush to find it fame.
Alexander PopeRead
Cursed be the verse, how well so e'er it flow, That tends to make one worthy man my foe.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote expresses a disdain for poetry that incites conflict between individuals, regardless of its artistic quality.
In this quote, Alexander Pope laments the idea that poetry, even when elegantly crafted, can create enmity among people. He suggests that the true worth of a verse should not come at the cost of harming relationships or fostering resentment. The essence of the quote reflects Pope's belief in the power of words and the responsibility that comes with creativity, emphasizing that art should unite rather than divide.
Themes
PoetryConflictRelationshipsWordsArt
In practice
Example use cases
This quote could be used in a literary analysis discussion about the responsibilities of poets.
More from Alexander Pope
All quotes βWhat 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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