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The sea of faith Was once, too, at the full, and round…

“The sea of faith Was once, too, at the full, and round earth's shore Lay like the folds of a bright girdle furled. But now I only hear Its melancholy, long, withdrawing roar, Retreating, to the breath Of the night-wind, down the vast edges drear And naked shingles of the world.” quote by Matthew Arnold
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“The sea of faith Was once, too, at the full, and round earth's shore Lay like the folds of a bright girdle furled. But now I only hear Its melancholy, long, withdrawing roar, Retreating, to the breath Of the night-wind, down the vast edges drear And naked shingles of the world.”

Matthew Arnold

About This Quote

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

The poet reflects on the loss of faith, describing a once‑full sea of belief now receding into melancholy.

In simple terms: Faith once full, now fading.

Key Takeaway

Recognize and accept changing beliefs.

Themes

faith loss nature melancholy

Mood

somber reflective

Type

poetic philosophical

When to use this quote

  • personal reflection
  • philosophical contemplation

Key Concepts

existentialism spiritual decline

Questions to Reflect On

  • What does faith mean to you now?
  • How do you cope with loss of certainty?
A Different Perspective

The metaphor may be too abstract for practical guidance.

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