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A Parting Guest What delightful hosts are they— Life and…

“A Parting Guest What delightful hosts are they— Life and Love! Lingeringly I turn away, This late hour, yet glad enough They have not withheld from me Their high hospitality. So, with face lit with delight And all gratitude, I stay Yet to press their hands and say, Thanks.—So fine a time! Good…” quote by James Whitcomb Riley
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““A Parting Guest What delightful hosts are they— Life and Love! Lingeringly I turn away, This late hour, yet glad enough They have not withheld from me Their high hospitality. So, with face lit with delight And all gratitude, I stay Yet to press their hands and say, Thanks.—So fine a time! Good night.””

James Whitcomb Riley

About This Quote

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

The speaker expresses gratitude for life's hospitality, acknowledging both joy and the bittersweet nature of parting.

In simple terms: Life offers generous hospitality, even as we say goodbye.

Key Takeaway

Appreciate fleeting moments.

Themes

gratitude transience celebration

Mood

contemplative warm

Type

literary inspirational

When to use this quote

  • farewells
  • celebrations
  • daily life

Key Concepts

poetry human experience

Questions to Reflect On

  • What everyday moments do you cherish before they end?
  • How does gratitude shape your view of partings?
A Different Perspective

May overlook the pain of loss.

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