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
What's to come is still unsure: In delay there lies no plenty; Then come kiss me, sweet and twenty, Youth's a stuff will not endure.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote reflects the uncertainty of the future and the fleeting nature of youth.
In this quote from Shakespeare, the speaker expresses the idea that one should embrace love and romance while they are young, as youth is temporary and uncertain. The phrase suggests that delaying romantic experiences does not bring abundance; rather, it highlights the importance of seizing the moment and cherishing fleeting opportunities for affection before they pass.
Themes
YouthLoveUncertaintySeize The MomentRomance
In practice
Example use cases
During a graduation speech to remind students to cherish their youth and the relationships they build.
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Lord, Lord, how this world is given to lying!
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Give it an understanding, but no tongue.
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Mark HaddonRead