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I pray for no more youth To perish before its prime; That Revenge and iron-heated War May fade with all that has gone before Into the night of time.
Aeschylus
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Interpretation

What this quote means

The quote expresses a desire for peace and an end to the destruction caused by war, particularly as it affects the youth.

Aeschylus emphasizes the tragic loss of young lives in warfare, wishing for an end to revenge-driven conflict that robs individuals of their potential. By hoping for a time when the memories of such wars fade away, he underscores the importance of cherishing life and the youth that represent the future.

Themes

WarYouthPeaceRevengeDestruction

In practice

Example use cases

During a speech against the consequences of war, one could quote Aeschylus to emphasize the necessity of protecting the youth.

More from Aeschylus

A god implants in mortal guilt whenever he wants utterly to confound a house.
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Neither a life of anarchy nor a life under a despot should you praise. To all that lies in the middle has a god given excellence.
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In every tyrant's heart there springs in the end this poison, that he cannot trust a friend.
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It is not the oath that makes us believe the man, but the man the oath.
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In war, truth is the first casualty.
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There is no pain so great as the memory of joy in present grief.
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