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Now the thought Both of lost happiness and lasting pain…

“Now the thought Both of lost happiness and lasting pain Torments him; round he throws his baleful eyes That witnessed huge affliction and dismay Mixed with obdurate pride and steadfast hate: At once as far as angels ken he views The dismal situation waste and wild, A dungeon horrible, on all sides…” quote by John Milton
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““Now the thought Both of lost happiness and lasting pain Torments him; round he throws his baleful eyes That witnessed huge affliction and dismay Mixed with obdurate pride and steadfast hate: At once as far as angels ken he views The dismal situation waste and wild, A dungeon horrible, on all sides round As one great furnace flamed, yet from those flames No light, but rather darkness visible Served only to discover sights of woe, Regions of sorrow, doleful shades, where peace And rest can never dwell, hope never comes That comes to all; but torture without end Still urges, and a fiery deluge, fed With ever-burning sulfur unconsumed.””

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 speaker describes profound suffering, combining loss, pride, and relentless torment, likening it to an endless, dark furnace.

In simple terms: Deep anguish mixes loss, pride, and endless pain.

Key Takeaway

Recognize how pride fuels suffering.

Themes

suffering pride eternity spiritual struggle

Mood

somber reflective

Type

literary philosophical

When to use this quote

  • personal grief
  • spiritual crisis
  • moral conflict
  • literary analysis

Key Concepts

theology human emotion existential dread

Questions to Reflect On

  • What role does pride play in your hardships?
  • Can darkness become a source of insight?
A Different Perspective

The vivid imagery may overwhelm, obscuring practical lessons.

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