The lark that shuns on lofty boughs to build, Her humble nest, lies silent in the field.
Edmund WallerRead
Vexed sailors cursed the rain, for which poor shepherds prayed in vain.
Interpretation
What this quote means
People often complain about circumstances, not realizing that others are hoping for the very things they disregard.
This quote highlights the irony of how different people perceive situations based on their own needs and experiences. While sailors may be frustrated by the rain disrupting their journey, shepherds rely on it for the nourishment of their flocks. It serves as a reminder that what is a burden to one may be a blessing to another, encouraging empathy and understanding of diverse perspectives.
Themes
RainSailorsShepherdsPerspectiveIronyComplaintHope
In practice
Example use cases
In a discussion about climate change, one could use this quote to emphasize how different communities are affected in contrasting ways.
More from Edmund Waller
All quotes βCould we forbear dispute, and practise love,_x000D_ _x000D_ We should agree as angels do above.
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All human things Of dearest value hang on slender strings.
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The chain that's fixed to the throne of Jove, On which the fabric of our world depends, One link dissolved, the whole creation ends.
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The soul's dark cottage, batter'd and decay'd, Lets in new light through chinks that Time has made. Stronger by weakness, wiser men become As they draw near to their eternal home: Leaving the old, both worlds at once they view That stand upon the threshold of the new.
Edmund WallerRead
Music so softens and disarms the mind That not an arrow does resistance find.
Edmund WallerRead
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