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We lean on Faith; and some less wise have cried, "Behold…

“We lean on Faith; and some less wise have cried, "Behold the butterfly, the see that's cast!" Vain hopes that fall like flowers before the blast! What man can look on Death unterrified?” quote by Richard Watson Gilder
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“We lean on Faith; and some less wise have cried, "Behold the butterfly, the see that's cast!" Vain hopes that fall like flowers before the blast! What man can look on Death unterrified?”

Richard Watson Gilder

About This Quote

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

Faith is portrayed as fragile, and death is shown as terrifying, highlighting human vulnerability and the futility of false hopes.

In simple terms: Faith is fragile; death is terrifying.

Key Takeaway

Acknowledge fear and seek true hope.

Themes

faith death human frailty hope illusion

Mood

somber reflective

Type

poetic philosophical

When to use this quote

  • grief counseling
  • spiritual reflection
  • literary analysis

Key Concepts

existentialism theology psychology

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you confront fear of death?
  • What gives you genuine hope?
A Different Perspective

faith can be misplaced, leading to despair.

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