INSCRIPTION, n. Something written on another thing…
“INSCRIPTION, n. Something written on another thing. Inscriptions are of many kinds, but mostly memorial, intended to commemorate the fame of some illustrious person and hand down to distant ages the record of his services and virtues. To this class of inscriptions belongs the name of John Smith, penciled on the Washington monument. Following are examples of memorial inscriptions on tombstones: (See EPITAPH.) In the sky my soul is found, And my body in the ground. By and by my body'll rise To my spirit in the skies, Soaring up to Heaven's gate. 1878. Sacred to the memory of Jeremiah Tree. Cut down May 9th, 1862, aged 27 yrs. 4 mos. and 12 ds. Indigenous. Affliction sore long time she boar, Phisicians was in vain, Till Deth released the dear deceased And left her a remain. Gone to join Ananias in the regions of bliss. The clay that rests beneath this stone As Silas Wood was widely known. Now, lying here, I ask what good It was to let me be S. Wood. O Man, let not ambition tr”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The passage defines inscriptions as memorial texts meant to preserve fame and virtues across time, illustrating with examples from monuments and tombstones.
In simple terms: Inscriptions are memorial writings that honor people and record their deeds.
Key Takeaway
Remember the purpose of memorials: to honor and preserve legacy.
Themes
memory
legacy
history
monuments
remembrance
Mood
reflective
solemn
respectful
Type
historical
commemorative
When to use this quote
- visiting historic sites
- writing a dedication
- preserving family history
- creating a memorial plaque
Key Concepts
epitaph
commemoration
historical record
Questions to Reflect On
- What aspects of a person's life deserve remembrance?
- How do memorials shape collective memory?
A Different Perspective
Inscriptions may ideal idealize or omit complex truths about the individual.