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O sleep, we are beholden to thee, sleep; Thou bearest…

“O sleep, we are beholden to thee, sleep; Thou bearest angels to us in the night, Saints out of heaven with palms. Seen by thy light Sorrow is some old tale that goeth not deep; Love is a pouting child.” quote by Jean Ingelow
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“O sleep, we are beholden to thee, sleep; Thou bearest angels to us in the night, Saints out of heaven with palms. Seen by thy light Sorrow is some old tale that goeth not deep; Love is a pouting child.”

Jean Ingelow

About This Quote

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

The poet personifies sleep as a divine, angelic guardian that eases sorrow and nurtures love, portraying it as a sacred refuge.

In simple terms: Sleep is a holy guardian that soothes sorrow and nurtures love.

Key Takeaway

Value restorative sleep for emotional health.

Themes

spirituality rest comfort

Mood

calming hopeful

Type

poetic motivational

When to use this quote

  • nighttime routines
  • mental health
  • creative writing

Key Concepts

angelic symbolism nighttime reverence

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can we cultivate restful sleep?
  • What role does sleep play in emotional balance?
A Different Perspective

The poem idealizes sleep, overlooking practical challenges of insomnia.

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