Skip to content

Love is like the wild rose-briar; Friendship like the…

“Love is like the wild rose-briar; Friendship like the holly-tree. The holly is dark when the rose-briar blooms, But which will bloom most constantly? The wild rose-briar is sweet in spring ,Its summer blossoms scent the air; Yet wait till winter comes again, And who will call the wild-briar fair?…” quote by Emily Dickinson
Download Open image
“Love is like the wild rose-briar; Friendship like the holly-tree. The holly is dark when the rose-briar blooms, But which will bloom most constantly? The wild rose-briar is sweet in spring ,Its summer blossoms scent the air; Yet wait till winter comes again, And who will call the wild-briar fair? Then, scorn the silly rose-wreath now, And deck thee with holly's sheen, That, when December blights thy brow, He still may leave thy garland green.”

Emily Dickinson

About This Quote

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

Love and friendship are compared to plants that change with seasons, suggesting that true affection endures through hardship.

In simple terms: Love changes with seasons; true friendship endures.

Key Takeaway

Value lasting bonds over fleeting beauty.

Themes

love friendship seasons endurance

Mood

reflective hopeful

Type

poetic philosophical

When to use this quote

  • romantic relationships
  • long‑term friendships
  • seasonal challenges
  • personal growth

Key Concepts

metaphor nature contrast

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you nurture friendships that survive hardships?
  • What does enduring love look like in everyday life?
A Different Perspective

May overlook the necessity of change and growth in relationships.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Emily Dickinson

Explore all 692 Emily Dickinson quotes

More Air quotes

Browse all 6,278 Air quotes