You bitches, sows, screech-owls, night owls, she-wolves…
![“You bitches, sows, screech-owls, night owls, she-wolves, blood suckers, [who] cry “Give, give! without ceasing” (Prov. 30:15–16). Come now, hear me, harlots, prostitutes, with your lascivious kisses, you wallowing places for fat pigs, couches for unclean spirits, demi-goddesses, sirens, witches…” quote by Stephen Greenblatt](https://sms4smile.com/q/i/3fa/stephen-greenblatt-10786_quote_you-bitches-sows-screech-owls-night-owls_831121.jpg)
““You bitches, sows, screech-owls, night owls, she-wolves, blood suckers, [who] cry “Give, give! without ceasing” (Prov. 30:15–16). Come now, hear me, harlots, prostitutes, with your lascivious kisses, you wallowing places for fat pigs, couches for unclean spirits, demi-goddesses, sirens, witches, devotees of Diana, if any portents, if any omens are found thus far, they should be judged sufficient to your name. For you are the victims of demons, destined to be cut off by eternal death. From you the devil is fattened by the abundance of your lust, is fed by your alluring feasts.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
A vivid condemnation of moral decay, likening society's vices to demonic feasting that fuels evil.
In simple terms: Moral corruption is portrayed as feeding the devil.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and resist destructive habits.
Themes
morality
corruption
spirituality
Mood
critical
somber
Type
allegorical
condemnatory
When to use this quote
- social criticism
- religious discourse
- personal reflection
Key Concepts
demonology
allegory
Questions to Reflect On
- How do personal vices contribute to broader societal harm?
- Can condemnation alone inspire change?
A Different Perspective
The metaphor may oversimplify complex social issues.