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For all his old age, and his one arm, and his blind eyes…

“For all his old age, and his one arm, and his blind eyes, he must die the death and be murdered, in order to light the gay bridals and other merrymakings of men, and also to illuminate the solemn churches that preach unconditional inoffensiveness by all to all.” quote by Herman Melville
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““For all his old age, and his one arm, and his blind eyes, he must die the death and be murdered, in order to light the gay bridals and other merrymakings of men, and also to illuminate the solemn churches that preach unconditional inoffensiveness by all to all.””

Herman Melville

About This Quote

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

A vivid, hyperbolic description of an aged, disabled figure whose death fuels both revelry and solemnity, critiquing hypocrisy.

In simple terms: Death fuels both joy and solemn rites.

Key Takeaway

Recognize hypocrisy in moral preaching.

Themes

death hypocrisy celebration

Mood

darkly humorous critical

Type

satire poetic

When to use this quote

  • funeral rites
  • public morality
  • artistic expression

Key Concepts

satire religion social critique

Questions to Reflect On

  • What does the contrast between celebration and solemnity reveal?
  • How does physical disability affect societal perception?
A Different Perspective

The graphic language may alienate some readers.

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