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Bring the rathe primrose that forsaken dies, The tufted…

“Bring the rathe primrose that forsaken dies, The tufted crow-toe, and pale gessamine, The white pink, and the pansy freaked with jet, The glowing violet, The musk-rose, and the well attir'd woodbine, With cowslips wan that hang the pensive head, And every flower that sad embroidery wears: Bid…” quote by John Milton
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“Bring the rathe primrose that forsaken dies, The tufted crow-toe, and pale gessamine, The white pink, and the pansy freaked with jet, The glowing violet, The musk-rose, and the well attir'd woodbine, With cowslips wan that hang the pensive head, And every flower that sad embroidery wears: Bid amaranthus all his beauty shed, And daffadillies fill their cups with tears, To strew the laureate hearse where Lycid lies.”

John Milton

About This Quote

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

The poem enumerates wilted flowers, urging the reader to recognize the fleeting beauty of life and the inevitable decay that follows.

In simple terms: Flowers die, reminding us of life's transience.

Key Takeaway

Cherish moments before they fade.

Themes

mortality beauty impermanence nature

Mood

somber contemplative

Type

poetic lamentative

When to use this quote

  • garden reflection
  • memorial services
  • artistic contemplation

Key Concepts

ephemerality symbolism mourning

Questions to Reflect On

  • What does each flower symbolize for you?
  • How do you find hope amid decay?
A Different Perspective

Focus on decay may overlook resilience and renewal.

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