When a man's eyes are sore his friends do not let him…
““When a man's eyes are sore his friends do not let him finger them, however much he wishes to, nor do they themselves touch the inflammation: But a man sunk in grief suffers every chance comer to stir and augment his affliction like a running sore; and by reason of the fingering and consequent irritation it hardens into a serious and intractable evil.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Grief intensifies pain when others intervene, turning minor wounds into severe suffering.
In simple terms: Avoid meddling with grieving friends.
Respect boundaries in grief.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- counseling
- friendship
- family support
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- When should you intervene in someone's grief?
- How can you support without causing harm?
Well‑meaning help can worsen emotional pain.