O what auailes it of immortall seed To beene ybred and…
““O what auailes it of immortall seed To beene ybred and neuer borne to die? Farre better I it deeme to die with speed, Then waste in woe and wailefull miserie. Who dyes the vtmost dolour doth abye, But who that liues, is left to waile his losse: So life is losse, and death felicitie. Sad life worse then glad death: and greater crosse To see friends graue, then dead the graue selfe to engrosse.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The poet reflects on mortality, preferring a swift death over prolonged suffering, and sees life as loss compared to death’s release.
In simple terms: A quick death is better than a painful life.
Key Takeaway
Accept mortality and seek meaning beyond suffering.
Themes
mortality
philosophy
existentialism
Mood
somber
contemplative
Type
literary
philosophical
When to use this quote
- grief
- war
- personal crisis
Key Concepts
death as release
life as loss
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you find meaning in suffering?
- What does “death felicity” mean to you?
A Different Perspective
The view may ignore the value of enduring hardship.