Do good by stealth, and blush to find it fame.
Alexander PopeRead
See how the World its Veterans rewards!_x000D_ _x000D_ A Youth of Frolics, an old Age of Cards;_x000D_ _x000D_ Fair to no purpose, artful to no end,_x000D_ _x000D_ Young without Lovers, old without a Friend;_x000D_ _x000D_ A Fop their Passion, but their Prize a Sot;_x000D_ _x000D_ Alive ridiculous, and dead forgot.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote reflects on the unappreciated sacrifices of veterans and the fleeting nature of life and friendships.
Alexander Pope's quote critiques how society rewards veterans, highlighting the transient nature of youth and the eventual loneliness that comes with aging. It suggests that despite the frivolity of youth, many grow old without true connections or recognition, ultimately leading to a life that seems absurd and is quickly forgotten after death.
Themes
VeteransYouthAgingFriendshipSocietyLife
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech acknowledging the contributions of veterans at a ceremony.
More from Alexander Pope
All quotes →What 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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