Skip to content

Desire of power, on earth a vicious weed, Yet, sprung from…

“Desire of power, on earth a vicious weed, Yet, sprung from high, is of celestial seed: In God 'tisglory; and when men aspire, 'Tis but a spark too much of heavenly fire.” quote by John Dryden
Download Open image
“Desire of power, on earth a vicious weed, Yet, sprung from high, is of celestial seed: In God 'tisglory; and when men aspire, 'Tis but a spark too much of heavenly fire.”

John Dryden

About This Quote

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

Uses metaphor to compare worldly power to a divine seed, suggesting ambition can be both lofty and dangerous.

In simple terms: Power is a divine seed that can burn.

Key Takeaway

Pursue ambition wisely, aware of risks.

Themes

ambition power spirituality

Mood

thoughtful serious

Type

philosophical literary

When to use this quote

  • political leadership
  • career ambition
  • ethical decision‑making

Key Concepts

metaphor moral philosophy

Questions to Reflect On

  • What fuels your ambition?
  • How do you keep ambition ethical?
A Different Perspective

Ambition may lead to hubris.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by John Dryden

Explore all 520 John Dryden quotes

More Aspire quotes

Browse all 650 Aspire quotes