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This race is never grateful: from the first, One fills…

“This race is never grateful: from the first, One fills their cup at supper with pure wine, Which back they give at cross-time on a sponge, In bitter vinegar.” quote by Elizabeth Barrett Browning
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“This race is never grateful: from the first, One fills their cup at supper with pure wine, Which back they give at cross-time on a sponge, In bitter vinegar.”

Elizabeth Barrett Browning

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

People are ungrateful, offering pure wine then returning it as bitter vinegar.

In simple terms: Gratitude lacks; good becomes bad.

Key Takeaway

Cultivate genuine gratitude.

Themes

gratitude human nature betrayal

Mood

reflective critical

Type

ethical psychological

When to use this quote

  • relationships
  • workplace
  • family dynamics

Key Concepts

psychology social exchange

Questions to Reflect On

  • Why do we repay kindness with bitterness?
  • How can we foster lasting gratitude?
A Different Perspective

Gratitude can be fickle and conditional.

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