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Salomé, Salomé, dance for me. I pray thee dance for me. I…

“Salomé, Salomé, dance for me. I pray thee dance for me. I am sad to-night. Yes, I am passing sad to-night. When I came hither I slipped in blood, which is an evil omen; and I heard, I am sure I heard in the air a beating of wings, a beating of giant wings. I cannot tell what they mean … I am sad…” quote by Oscar Wilde
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“Salomé, Salomé, dance for me. I pray thee dance for me. I am sad to-night. Yes, I am passing sad to-night. When I came hither I slipped in blood, which is an evil omen; and I heard, I am sure I heard in the air a beating of wings, a beating of giant wings. I cannot tell what they mean … I am sad to-night. Therefore dance for me. Dance for me, Salomé, I beseech you. If you dance for me you may ask of me what you will, and I will give it you, even unto the half of my kingdom.”

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 speaker begs Salomé to dance, offering power and wealth, while haunted by ominous signs and personal sorrow.

In simple terms: Desperate plea for dance, promising reward despite darkness.

Key Takeaway

Consider the cost of desire.

Themes

desire power danger ritual fate

Mood

dramatic foreboding

Type

literary theatrical

When to use this quote

  • theatrical performance
  • personal confession
  • ritualistic dance
  • psychological torment
  • moral dilemma

Key Concepts

temptation sacrifice prophecy

Questions to Reflect On

  • What are you willing to trade for a wish?
  • How do omens shape our decisions?
A Different Perspective

The offer may bind Salomé to a tragic fate.

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