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Rid of the world’s injustice, and his pain, He rests at…

“Rid of the world’s injustice, and his pain, He rests at last beneath God’s veil of blue: Taken from life when life and love were new The youngest of the martyrs here is lain, Fair as Sebastian, and as early slain. No cypress shades his grave, no funeral yew, But gentle violets weeping with the dew…” quote by Oscar Wilde
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““Rid of the world’s injustice, and his pain, He rests at last beneath God’s veil of blue: Taken from life when life and love were new The youngest of the martyrs here is lain, Fair as Sebastian, and as early slain. No cypress shades his grave, no funeral yew, But gentle violets weeping with the dew Weave on his bones an ever-blossoming chain. O proudest heart that broke for misery! O sweetest lips since those of Mitylene! O poet-painter of our English land! Thy name was writ in water — it shall stand: And tears like mine will keep thy memory green, As Isabella did her Basil tree. Rome””

Oscar Wilde

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 laments the loss of a young martyr, honoring his memory through nature and enduring tribute.

In simple terms: A young martyr is remembered through poetic tribute.

Key Takeaway

Remember the fallen by celebrating their legacy.

Themes

loss memory honor art nature

Mood

somber reverent

Type

poetic elegiac

When to use this quote

  • memorial services
  • art exhibitions
  • literary discussions
  • historical commemorations

Key Concepts

poetry legacy grief beauty

Questions to Reflect On

  • What does this tribute reveal about society’s view of sacrifice?
  • How can we honor loss without romanticizing tragedy?
A Different Perspective

Idealizing martyrdom may overlook complex histories.

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