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Oh the grave!--the grave!--It buries every error--covers…

“Oh the grave!--the grave!--It buries every error--covers every defect--extinguishes every resentment! From its peaceful bosom spring none but fond regrets and tender recollections. Who can look down upon the grave even of an enemy, and not feel a compunctious throb, that he should ever have warred…” quote by Washington Irving
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“Oh the grave!--the grave!--It buries every error--covers every defect--extinguishes every resentment! From its peaceful bosom spring none but fond regrets and tender recollections. Who can look down upon the grave even of an enemy, and not feel a compunctious throb, that he should ever have warred with the poor handful of earth that lies mouldering before him!”

Washington Irving

About This Quote

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

Death erases all faults and grievances, leaving only gentle memories and regret for conflict.

In simple terms: Death removes all errors, leaving only regret.

Key Takeaway

Remember the futility of war.

Themes

mortality forgiveness regret

Mood

somber reflective

Type

philosophical poetic

When to use this quote

  • war
  • personal reflection
  • historical analysis

Key Concepts

impermanence humility

Questions to Reflect On

  • What grudges could you release?
  • How does mortality shape empathy?
A Different Perspective

It may romanticize death, ignoring its pain.

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