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Water, water, everywhere, And all the boards did shrink…

“Water, water, everywhere, And all the boards did shrink; Water, water, everywhere, Nor any drop to drink.” quote by Samuel Taylor Coleridge
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“Water, water, everywhere, And all the boards did shrink; Water, water, everywhere, Nor any drop to drink.”

Samuel Taylor Coleridge

This quote is also attributed to Bible in other sources. Attributions for famous quotes are often disputed.

About This Quote

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

Describes an oceanic expanse where water is abundant yet undrinkable, highlighting scarcity amid plenty.

In simple terms: Abundant water, yet none drinkable.

Key Takeaway

Surplus can mask essential lack.

Themes

nature paradox survival

Mood

melancholic thoughtful

Type

literary metaphorical

When to use this quote

  • desert island
  • drought conditions
  • over‑abundant markets

Key Concepts

resource scarcity environmental perception

Practical Applications

  • recognize true resource value

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do we differentiate between quantity and utility?
  • What modern situations mirror this paradox?
A Different Perspective

The metaphor may overlook contexts where water is both abundant and usable.

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