So spake our mother Eve, and Adam heard Well pleased, but…
““So spake our mother Eve, and Adam heard Well pleased, but answered not; for now too nigh Th' Archangel stood, and from the other hill To their fixed station, all in bright array The Cherubim descended; on the ground Gliding meteorous, as ev'ning mist Ris'n from a river o'er the marish glides, And gathers ground fast at the labourer's heel Homeward returning. High in front advanced, The brandished sword of God before them blazed Fierce as a comet; which with torrid heat, And vapour as the Libyan air adust, Began to parch that temperate clime; whereat In either and the hast'ning angel caught Our ling'ring parents, and to th' eastern gate Led them direct, and down the cliff as fast To the subjected plain; then disappeared. They looking back, all th' eastern side beheld Of Paradise, so late their happy seat, Waved over by that flaming brand, the gate With dreadful faces thronged and fiery arms: Some natural tears they dropped, but wiped them soon; The world was all before them, where to choose Their place of rest, and Providence their guide: They hand in hand with wand'ring steps and slow, Through Eden took their solitary way.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Adam and Eve, guided by a divine presence, confront the loss of Eden and must choose their future path.
In simple terms: They face exile and must decide their destiny.
Key Takeaway
Accept responsibility and seek guidance after loss.
Themes
faith
loss
choice
redemption
Mood
somber
reflective
Type
philosophical
literary
When to use this quote
- personal crisis
- career transition
- spiritual searching
Key Concepts
Divine providence
human agency
exile
Questions to Reflect On
- What does “the brandished sword of God” symbolize for you?
- How can you find direction after a major setback?
A Different Perspective
The poetic language can obscure practical lessons for modern readers.