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We are all conceived in close prison; in our mothers…

“We are all conceived in close prison; in our mothers wombs, we are close prisoners all; when we are born, we are born but to the liberty of the house; prisoners still, though within larger walls; and then all our life is but a going out to the place of execution, to death.” quote by John Donne
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“We are all conceived in close prison; in our mothers wombs, we are close prisoners all; when we are born, we are born but to the liberty of the house; prisoners still, though within larger walls; and then all our life is but a going out to the place of execution, to death.”

John Donne

About This Quote

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

Life is likened to imprisonment, ending inevitably in death.

In simple terms: Life is a confined journey ending in death.

Key Takeaway

Recognize life's constraints.

Themes

mortality freedom existence

Mood

somber reflective

Type

poetic philosophical

When to use this quote

  • prison life
  • birth
  • death
  • spiritual reflection

Key Concepts

theology philosophy

Questions to Reflect On

  • What freedoms exist within constraints?
  • How does this view shape daily choices?
A Different Perspective

Overlooks moments of joy and agency.

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