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That I grow sour, who only lack delight; That I descend to…

“That I grow sour, who only lack delight; That I descend to sneer, who only grieve: That from my depth I should contemn your height; That with my blame my mockery you receive; Huntress and splendour of the woodland night, Diana of this world, do not believe.” quote by Hilaire Belloc
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“That I grow sour, who only lack delight; That I descend to sneer, who only grieve: That from my depth I should contemn your height; That with my blame my mockery you receive; Huntress and splendour of the woodland night, Diana of this world, do not believe.”

Hilaire Belloc

About This Quote

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

Expresses envy and contempt for those who mock higher ideals while feeling inferior.

In simple terms: Envy leads to contempt of higher ideals.

Key Takeaway

Beware of scornful attitudes.

Themes

envy contempt self‑reflection

Mood

reflective critical

Type

philosophical literary

When to use this quote

  • personal relationships
  • art criticism
  • self‑esteem issues

Key Concepts

human pride social hierarchy

Questions to Reflect On

  • Why do we mock what we cannot attain?
  • What does this reveal about personal insecurity?
A Different Perspective

Self‑critique may ignore genuine merit.

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